player predictions - 2b

[thecrow124]

Initially I thought I would go by the most problematic positions, but now I figure i'll just go around the diamond. So let's see what kind of production we figure to get out of Neil Walker.
I know some were expecting more from him last season, but I kind of thought he did a very good job. I don't see a lot of progression this year out of him either. However, who cares what I think, let's see what all of you think.

 

[Darkstone42]

I expect improved defense from Walker this season, but that's difficult to quantify. I think with him, the more comfortable he gets at the position, the more his inherent defensive talents will show.

Offensively, I foresee a little bit more power out of him, and perhaps a bit more consistency as well, but nothing drastic.

.280/.345/.430/.775

I think he could be anywhere from a .750 to an .820 (if everything goes right for him) OPS.

 

[Illinest]

.750 OPS with slightly better defense. Pretty decent 2B and one of our better position players overall.
Ultimately he needs to be batting 7th. When the lineup is strong enough that he's seventh then I'll be happy.

 

[element1286]

No joke, Darkstone, I had that same slash line in my head when I looked at the thread title, can't change it now.

280/345/430

He's definitely better on defense, but I thought his transition would be smoother, hopefully he takes another step forward.

 

[element1286]

No joke, Darkstone, I had that same slash line in my head when I looked at the thread title, can't change it now.

280/345/430

He's definitely better on defense, but I thought his transition would be smoother, hopefully he takes another step forward.

 

[magnumo]

Like those who have already posted, I expect some consistency and a bit of development across the board from Walker, but not all the way back to his rookie performance. I'll go with .285/.350/.435/.785 for 2012.

I was happy with his improved defense (and hope for continued improvement) as well. Despite the prevalent lack of credibility of Gold Glove awards among thoughtful fans, it seems doubtful that Walker could have been a finalist without at least decent defense. For a guy drafted as a catcher, then converted to 3B (where he won awards for defense), and converted again to 2B (at the major league level), he's done a remarkable job on D.

Nevertheless, the thought continues to lurk in the back of my mind that he may end up back at 3B..... because Alvarez either fails or moves to first. On the other hand, if we see an actual resurgence from McGehee, it seems that there would be no point in moving Walker back to 3B (at least while McGehee remains a Pirate), regardless of what happens with Alvarez. (SO many variables and question marks..... but I guess that's part of what makes it interesting.)

 

[thedddd]

Funny how a year changes everything, like stated, this is one position that doesn't worry me that much.

Really on board with the numbers mentioned above.