Virtual Diamond: Angels in the outfield

  This week we will examine two Angels in the outfield. Tori Hunter (OF, LAANGELS) and Angel Pagan ( OF, NYMETS). One with a considerable amount of Major League experience, the other nearly a rookie, out of a community college in my hometown in Florida, but putting up similar numbers for teams with nearly identical records.

   Starting with the youngster Pagan (is 29 a youngster?), now fighting for his line up spot since the return of Carlos Beltran (OF, NYMETS), from the DL. Early indications are that Angel may take over the slot previously held by the rather unproductive, overly unimpressive Jeff Francoeur (OF,NYMETS). As a fan of the mediocre Mets, I hope this trend continues. I refer to Pagan as nearly a rookie to reflect the fact that in his 4th year, he has never played more than 88 games in a season, matching his 2010 total. a 1999 4th round pick by the Mets, Pagan has been a pleasant suprise this season. currently sporting a .311 average (40 points higher over his last 10 games), 8 taters, 44 driven, and 20 swipes. Keep in mind your HR totals will never flourish at the cavern known as  Citi Field, (8 HR at Citi is equal to 24 at Yankee Stadium). However, Citi is conducive to Pagan and his above average speed. It is my opinion that having Pagan as a back up with his switch hitting capabilities, will give fantasy managers some flexibility for the day off juggling acts we inevitably run into.

   On to Tori Hunter, the Angels Center Fielder in his 13th season, has thus far posted a .293 avg, 15 long balls, a rather impressive 63 ribs. and a rather unimpressive 8 steals. Obviously hunter will improve your power columns, but the speed columns you will need to look elsewhere. I guess at 35 years old, the wheels start to rust a bit!! One interesting improvement for Hunter this season is his BB/K ratio. In ’09, Tori took only47 free passes, while caught window shopping 92 times. so far in ’10 this number has improved to 44BB to only 58K. This improvement shows with age comes patience and wisdom. (That’s what I tell my kids anyway!!). If your team is struggling in the power columns, it may be a wise choice to pursuit hunter if you can get him on a bargain (maybe you can trade Francoeur for him!!)

   Hope we all had productive weeks,I took a rollercoaster ride in Yahoo roto climbing to first, the settling in a mediocre 3rd place. I was able to take the lead in ESPN roto, while taking down a 7 2 1 victory head to head ESPN. Check your roster DLs, some players are due to return to action soon, be prepared to reinsert them where needed. Until next week, wishing you monster scoring, and most of all, have fun!!

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