List of top 100 performers in the game – MLB 2012 Update - Part 26
49. Shane Victorino
After Aaron Rowand departed from the Philadelphia Phillies, Shane Victorino took over as the starting centre-fielder. He played a crucial part in his team’s success, helping them win five Division titles. As 2011 was by far his career best season as he posted
an impressive .846 OPS, 5.9 WAR and 135 wRC+.
Coming to his performance in the previous years, Victorino had registered four seasons of at least 25 stolen bases before 2011. In addition to his sensational hitting abilities, the three time Golden Glove Award winner has un-matched defensive skills as
well.
Combine it all together and you will get one of the best centre-field hitters in the game today. Victorino will be hoping to maintain his form in 2012 to earn another huge pay day at the end of the season. Consistency and persistent hard work are going to
be the key to his success at this level.
Phillies, on the other hand, will be looking to capitalise on having one of the most dynamic centre-fielders in their line-up. They will certainly try and protect Victorino to achieve even better results in Major League Baseball this season.
“That's one thing that he wants us to do here, play solid. Making little mistakes here and there will cost runs. That's what he wants to stress more than anything else. Wins look good, but if you don't do everything fundamentally sound, you're not getting
anything out of the spring,” said Phillies’ manager in an interview.
“From everything I've heard and read, I feel comfortable. But no one from management told me I'm the fourth outfielder, so I'm a little on edge. Whatever my role is, I'm going to do my best,” said Victorino.
50. David Wright
Once, one of the most dynamic young stars, David Wright fell into darkness after a rough first season calling. The spacious Citi Field did not help the cause either as Wright’s power seemed to be affected considerably in 2009. In the entire season, Wright
managed to hit only 10 home-runs and .447 SLG, not a great feeling for someone who sets very high standards for himself.
However, he bounced back brilliantly in the following season, hitting 29 home-runs with 103 RBI’s. He also posted a decent .857 OPS, which instantly made him one of the most talked about players at the end of the season. Wright was hoping to continue his
impressive run in 2011 as well but unfortunately, that did not turn out to be the case for him.
In his last six seasons in the American League, the left handed striker had appeared in at least 144 or more games. However, in 2011, he missed 60 games due to health and fitness problems. David looked very rusty when he returned from injury as his 1.9 WAR
and .772 OPS were the worst marks of his career.
Wright aimed to get things back on track with strong and consistent performances in 2012. Considering his efforts in 2010 and his in injuries in 2011, we give him the benefit of the doubt. On the other hand, the Yankees will be hoping to get the most out
of one of their dynamic hitter to make it to the World Series.
Continued in Part 27
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