Pablo Sandoval is likely get more than 500 ABs in 2009 and could be a 70 run, 17 HR, 75 RBI guy.
Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) -
Pablo Sandoval hit .349 last year with 114 runs scored, 23 HRs and 120 RBIs. You say that's impossible, you would recognize his name if that were true?
Well, Sandoval did most of that work in single A and double AA, but the numbers are correct. When the San Francisco Giants brought him up in mid-August, he batted .345 for the "big club" in 154 at bats.
The real question is where will the Giants play him in the field? He shifted between first base (17 games), third base (12 games) and catcher (11 games) in 2008 and should that make him eligible in your league at all three positions, then Sandoval might make a great selection on draft day.
Here is the situation with the 22-year-old Venezuelan slugger. He swings at anything and everything he can reach - he's from the Vladimir Guerrero school of hitting. He walked just four times in 154 AB in the majors and 35 times in 639 plate appearances last season all told. He's also a liability in the field, but as long as manager Bruce Bochy and the pitchers can deal with the inconsistent glove, they'll love the bat.
He'll likely get more than 500 ABs in 2009 and could be a 70 run, 17 HR, 75 RBI guy who hits right around the .300 mark. If he's catcher-eligible, that puts him very near the top-five, however if he's only a third baseman or first baseman, then he drops way down in value.
Right now, it appears as if he will start the season as the Giants everyday third baseman. And he is being picked in the 12-15 round range. That could be a bargain if he can be your everyday catcher. Be sure to check your league's position eligibility rules before making a play for Sandoval.
