Posted by Steve
I think we’re far enough into the season where J.J. Hardy’s MVP-type performance is worth discussing. Incidentally, the title of this post is also the name of my fantasy team at the moment (it’s named after my waiver claim shortstop who has relegated Michael Young to the bench).
PECOTA had Hardy for .263/.329/.419 with 11 home runs. I did think this projection was a little on the low side, but it certainly wasn’t anything close to unreasonable. Hardy was tabbed as a guy who could eventually hit 15-25 home runs, but nothing like what he is currently on pace for. After an injury-ruined season many were just anxious to see what Hardy could do with a full season, and whether he was able to even stay healthy.
If this glimpse is anything close to what he’ll be, the Brewers already have their best shortstop since Robin Yount and a guy who will hit 30 bombs a season with good defense. Those who were vehemently against moving Bill Hall away from short now see what all the hype was about.
One of my favorite quotes from Moneyball is this one from Billy Beane: “Power is something that can be acquired. Good hitters develop power. Power hitters don’t become good hitters.”
It certainly seems that way for Hardy. Plus, he’s just so dreamy.
Photo courtesy JSOnline
