Nick Swisher 2010 Projection
Nick quickly turned into a fan favorite in his first season in pinstripes. I’m sure some of it had to do with his unbelievable hot start to the 2009 season, but even when he hit long (LONG) cold streaks, the New York fans were staying behind him (with as much restraint as possible). Anyway, the two Nicks on this team are extremely similar types of hitters. They both have an extremely keen eye for where the strike zone is, and they can provide power with the stick. If you’ve read Moneyball, you would know how valuable guys like Nick Swisher are to Billy Beane. Of course, now the times have changed a bit and the rest of the market has caught on to on base percentage being the undervalued stat, but Swisher is a great fit for the Yankees, no matter what his relative value may be. This man has two outstanding talents rolled up into one body. He can draw walks with the best of them, and he can also be a charismatic persona for the Yankee Faithful. Anyway, what will he do this season?
Plate Appearances: 598
At Bats: 512
Hits: 127
Walks + HBP: 86
Doubles: 24
Triples: 1
Home Runs: 22
Runs Batted In: 73
Runs Scored: 77
Stolen Bases: 1
Batting Average: .248
On Base Percentage: .383
Slugging Percentage: .409
On Base + Slugging: .792
I would expect more of the same from Swish. His on base percentage may dip a bit just because hitting in that lineup, and most likely fairly low in that lineup, he is bound to see many pitches. Remember, last season for a portion he was hitting at the top of the order. Hitting lower in the order he will see more pitches to hit, and therefore walk less. He’ll provide some pop, but nothing out of this world. What he’s going to do best this year is be the Yankees most interesting player.
Stay tuned for tomorrow when Robinson Cano is the subject of our discussion.
If you have any opinions about what you think Swish will do, say so in the comments section!
Photo courtesy of Zimbio.com
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