Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Brennan Boesch Strikes Again!

Detroit Tigers, Brennan Boesch OF went yard to deep right center for his 11th of the season in the top of the 4th vs. the New York Mets currently hot pitcher Jonathan Niese. This 2 run-shot was not enough as the Mets easy rolled the tigers in a 14-6 loss. Boesch who was highlighted in a previous Who’s Hot - Likely free agents post , was batting .337 with 36 RBIs and 22 Runs before his two-run shot today.  

With all the media focus and Atlanta’s rising young star Jason Heyward, it seems this rookie sensation will remain a secret only of the Midwest and the Detroit faithful.  

Named Rookie of the Month in May, many have dismissed Boesch because of his higher strikeout rate. But there has got to be another reason you’re not hearing enough about him, right? Boesch is not the strongest left-fielder and actually didn’t join the team until a few weeks into the season, far into the Heyward frenzy.

As of June 18th he was still 24 at bats short of qualifying for the percentage lists, where he would be listed with the 5-th Best OPS in the American league and the 2nd Best Slugging Percentage. Top spot in slugging is held by fellow teammate Miguel Cabrera. 

Last Tuesday in the post, ‘Is Tigers’ rookie sensation for real?,’ Rob Neyer of ESPN.com discussed Boesch’s viability as we go forward into the season.

“Is Brennan Boesch anywhere near this good, really? Historically, Boesch has never been much of a prospect, advancing one level every season despite generally unimpressive numbers. Last year in Double-A, he slugged .510 but also posted a .318 on-base percentage. There's simply nothing in Boesch's statistical record suggesting that he's good enough to play everyday in the majors. Let alone rank among the league leaders for an entire season.

Which doesn't mean he won't. Human beings have this odd way of surprising us. It's just not the smart way to bet.”

The speed of Boesch’s progression through the farm system makes no difference to fantasy owners who are enjoying his production numbers. If anything it has shown Brennan Boeschs unwaivering determination and drive to compete in Major Leagues. So what happen? He got the chance. Boesch has been an overlooked natural talent who likely only needed the opportunity. Simply being a Tiger and playing side by side with high caliber players like Miguel Cabrera could be another factor for these all-star numbers.


Take note of Brennan Boesch, a 2006- 3round pick by  the Tigers, who each year improved, matured, and progressed through the Detroit Tigers system as continues to solidify his spot in Tigers lineup. 

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