PT TOMORROW: AL Central—Bourn losing grip on leadoff spot
Apr 29 2015
Michael Bourn (OF, CLE) has struggled so far this year, batting only .169/.239/.200 through his first 65 AB. Because of his poor start, the Indians have moved him out of his customary leadoff position, into the 8th and 9th position, on several occasions during the past week. If he continues to hit at the bottom of the order, this will have a significant impact on the number of AB he accumulates, along with significant impact on his counting stats. A research study (here) has shown that over the course of a season a 9th place hitter will collect about 143 fewer AB than a leadoff hitter. On average, 8th and 9th place hitters SB totals are one-third the total of leadoff hitters.
Bourn may not have the skills to be a...
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