List of top 100 performers in the game – MLB 2012 Update – Part 44
87. Alex Avila
Alex Avila is one of the most dynamic hitters in Major League Baseball right now. Making the most of his available opportunities, he asserted himself as a major force in MLB hitting last year. Although he had shown glimpses of his talent in previous MLB
seasons as well, it was until 2011 when he truly realised his immense potential.
Showing great determination, fighting spirit and composure, he played a crucial part in Detroit Tigers American League Central title winning campaign past season. Batting with great aggression, he posted a sensational .895 OPS to finish eighth in the American
League voting. For his consistent and match winning performances, he was also selected as the starting catcher in an All Star game.
Since making his big league debut, Avila has improved his hitting skills considerably. He has the ability to play his natural game even under great pressure, which makes him a special player to have in the team. The Tigers also want him to do well with the
bat as they assigned him a personal coach in 2011.
In addition to his astonishing hitting abilities in 2011, the guy showed the baseball what he was capable of with his glove. His CS% of .320 was the fourth best among all catchers in 2011. With Victor Martinez out of the team for the entire next season,
Avila will have a crucial role to play in the upcoming season. Undoubtedly, he will be used by the Tigers behind plate but Avila will be looking to achieve greater things.
“I feel a much bigger difference this year than last year ... The trick is making it last. So whatever program you have in the offseason, you have to carry it into the season,” said Avila in an interview.
The upcoming season will be very important for both Avila and the Tigers. If the striker/catcher can maintain his impressive run in 2012, he will have an excellent opportunity to register his name in the list of all time great catchers. The Tigers have a
stronger battling line up this season. With Prince Fielder, Miguel Cabrera and Brennan Boesch, Avila will have very little pressure to deal with. It will be interesting to see if he can live up to the hype in Spring Training.
88. Shin-Soo Choo
After making the most of available opportunities in the previous two seasons, Shin-Soo Choo struggled to live up to the expectations in 2011. Injuries halted his progress significantly in first half of the season as he ended up playing only 85 games during
the season. The left handed striker seemed to have found his lost form after the All Star break as he hit 3 home runs with 8 RBI’s and an incredible 1.000 OPS.
It will not be wrong to say that Choo is Cleveland Indian’s best hitter. Not only is he a great striker, he can be an asset on the field. He has been working on his defensive play for the last couple of years and his efforts are finally paying dividends.
His 11.1 WAR between 2009 and 2011 suggests that he is one of the best right fielders in the game. The upcoming season will be a key one for the hitter. He will be looking to stay healthy and fit throughout to make a name for himself.
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