List of top 100 performers in the game - MLB 2012 Update - Part 39
77. Ubaldo Jimenez
In 2010, Ubaldo Jimenez made the most of his available opportunities and it looked as if he will be one of the game’s up and coming young stars. The starter pitched with great control and accuracy to post one of the best season of his career in that year. He had an incredible .93 ERA with 15 wins going into the month of June. Although he was unable to maintain his sensational form in second half of 2010 season, he finished third in the NL Cy Young voting. It was an amazing accomplishment by Jimenez considering he was still very new to Major League Baseball world.
However, Jimenez failed to continue his impressive run into the 2011 season. His 6-9 win-loss record with 4.46 ERA and 1.37 wasn’t something his fans were hoping to see. Looking at his poor performances, Colorado Rockies decided to trade him to Cleveland Indians for a decent return. Although his 4.68 ERA and 1.40 WHIP in 2011 were quite ordinary, he should be given the benefit of the doubt considering he is still very young.
“I’m feeling really confident. I think I'm learning how to pitch. I'm really comfortable out there, and I know what I'm capable of doing every time I take the ball,” said Jimenez in an interview.
“Don't try to strike everybody out ... stay back and just focus on the catcher's mitt, just throw the ball low in the strike zone. The only thing I think about is getting ready for every five days, to go out and get ready for my team. I feel good with my slider a lot. When I'm far behind the count I use it ... so I feel confident with that,” he further added.
The upcoming season provides him with an excellent opportunity to change the course of his career. Undoubtedly, he has the skills and ability to strike the best hitters in the business. Consistency and confidence will be the key for him if he wants to achieve his desired goals in 2012.
78. Michael Morse
Since making his Major League Baseball debut, Michael Morse has given some magical performances. Some baseball writers and analysts singled him out as a breakout candidate. However, it wasn’t until 2011 when he truly realised his immense potential. After making a decent start to the season as a left fielder, he became a full time first baseman for Washington Nationals in second half of the season. Morse was asked to play first base after Nationals’ designated first baseman Adam LaRoche suffered from a season ending injury.
The right handed did not disappoint the fans and his team manager as he went on to post his career best stats past season. Making the most of available opportunities, he finished fourth in National League in SLG (.550). His .910 OPS was also quite outstanding. Hitting 31 home runs and 95 RBI’s, he helped his team win memorable game during the season. Although it is unclear whether he will continue playing first base or in the outfield, Washington Nationals will be looking to utilise him to his maximum capacity. Spring Training will be of great importance for the striker. He will be looking to maintain his excellent form to earn a huge pay day at the end of 2012.
Continued in part 40
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