There are always players on a team who break out and have a big year, or make a comeback from a bad season. Now these guys don’t have to be rookies. They can be anyone who you think will have a successful year, even if many people don’t notice them. I picked these guys:
Ian Kennedy-It seems to me that Ian Kennedy has flown under the radar with all the hype Hughes and Chamberlain have gotten..when this guy might be considered a #1 prospect on many other teams. Through two minor league seasons Ian managed to put up some impressive numbers:
W-L 12-3 1.87 ERA 149.0 IP 52 BB 165 K
Kennedy might look short in stature, but there is no doubting his talent. He is also a polished pitcher, as he played college ball at USC. In his short stint with the Yankees he played well: 19.0 IPW-L 1-0 1.89 ERA 9BB 15 K. I am expecting a nice year out of Kennedy, and I think he will surprise alot of people.
Hideki Matsui-Many believe that Matsui isn’t very good anymore…when people heard rumors that he could be in a possible trade to the Giants..Yankee fans were like “Yeah, go trade him!.” Well..I happen to think Hideki will have a really good year. After his injury with the Yankees, Matsui had missed alot of games. It seems like he is back to normal and ready to play. Matsui missed 19 games last year, and he still managed to put up 25 home runs, 100+ rbi’s, and a solid .285 AVG. I figure if he plays more games this year he can hit 30-35 HR’s, his usual 100+ RBI’s, and possibly hit .300 or over.
Jason Giambi-It looks like he is stuck in the Bronx one more year..so deal with it. lol. Although he may not be liked by many Yankee fans, I still think he has something left in him. Looks like Jason will be getting a lot of playing time at first base this year. I figure if he plays in 145 games or more..he can put up 30-35 HR’s, 100 RBI’s, and a .260-.275 AVG.
Kevin Rozell
Rob Bradley
