CamdenFan
New Member
I agree that playing regularly could lead to an increase of skill level and thus increase BABIP slightly... but how do you explain the spike in McLouth's line drive percentage (which will inflate AVG and OBP because liners are much more likely to fall for a hit or result in a home run)? For comparison, let's actually look at Chris Davis: his LD% is 23.8% this year, which is fairly close to the career average of 23.3%.
(Again, this is not meant as criticism against McLouth... I'm just trying to analyze his numbers objectively.)
An increase in skill level, maybe. Starting in the lineup on a daily basis though allows a batter to find his groove and become familiar with opposing pitchers stuff. Experience breeds competence.
The guy came into MLB with high expectations, got injured and wound up getting the shaft in Pittsburg. Rode the pine and didn't get to play. Stats are useful, but look at what the Orioles have.
Last year in the post season, McClouth was the only guy to bring his bat and show up to play. This year as a leadoff batter, he's hitting a solid .290 and once he's on base he is a valid threat to steal. So a single can become a double just like that. Pitchers have to adjust because he does have speed, and is a threat to steal. Pretty hard to ask more from your leadoff batter.
His glove is solid defensively. His arm is a question, but he will chase down fly balls and his play at the wall is always solid. I don't know. I think the guy is a bargain. The O's are in a small market and can afford him, and he brings a hell of a lot to the table.