Making a 2nd Half Move
In order to make a move in the 2nd half of the season that will move you through the pack to the head of your division you need to take a risk. It’s time to dump that extra outfielder who doesn’t produce and pick up one of the players that is going to set the baseball world on fire after the break. So start taking notes and listen closely because this could make or break your season.
FRANK THOMAS, DH/1B, WHITE SOX
Sure he’s already started to heat things up, but now he has Roberto in front of him to drive in. The negativity is gone surrounding Thomas and for the time being his critics have left him alone to play. It’s a great time to be relaxed in Chicago, which is just what the doctor ordered for Thomas. The ball sure flies in the Windy City during the summer. Look for Thomas’numbers to jump even farther.
RYAN LUDWICK, OF, RANGERS
Texas has committed to giving this phenom a shot at playing every day. He’s been called up after setting AAA ablaze. Juan won’t stay healthy for more than two innings which opens up great opportunity for a player who fits perfectly into the Ranger’s stadium. He may have gotten the best of the White Sox trade.
GABE CAPLER, OF, RED SOX
This former minor league player of the year is busting out in all directions with Boston. Damian Jackson is walking a thin wire and won’t be around long if he doesn’t pick things up. Capler has already replaced him as the fourth outfielder and Boston plans on rotating Capler so that he gets equal playing time with the other starting outfielders. Add the intangible that Capler is extremely fast combined with the unique dimensions of Fenway and Capler will be scoring a lot of runs for an already high scoring team.
KEN GRIFFEY, JR., OF, REDS
Okay, this isn’t much of what you’d call a sleeper talent-wise, but in most leagues he’s an extreme bargain. Great American Ballpark is a home run haven and Griffey is one of the few players who will be working through the All-Star break in order to return to Griffey-esque form. Look for Griffey to go on a home run frenzy in July and August on his way to a 25 home run 2nd half to reach the 500 homer plateau.
VLAD GUERRERO, OF, EXPOS
Again, no big surprise on talent, but he’s rehabbing nicely in Florida and although there’s been no timetable set the Expos are looking to add Guerrero back to the line-up shortly after the break. The real reason he’s such a great choice? With the Expos current situation he’s likely to be thrust into a pennant chase with a late season trade to a team that knows how to put him in a position to drive in runs.
