After writing about Justin Morneau and what we can expect from him this season, I got to thinking about what kind of season Delmon Young could have in 2011. I have to tell you, I am absolutely stoked to see what he will do this year. I was so confident in him putting up monster numbers that I drafted him in my keeper league, and I rarely take Twins players on my fantasy teams.
I was very happy to see Ron Gardenhire batting Young fifth in the Opening Day lineup. He should provide a serious right-handed threat behind Mauer and Morneau. He has tons of protection in this lineup too. It’s pretty crazy that Jason Kubel and Michael Cuddyer both hit behind him. That makes for a very stacked offensive lineup. I do feel Kubel will bounce back to close to his 2009 form, by the way.
Seth Stohs beat me to the punch yesterday by making some predictions for Young(and the rest of the team). Seth has some lofty expectations for Young, just like I do. He sees him hitting 28 home runs and driving in 120 runs this year, all while batting over .300. I almost feel like Seth and I are reading one another’s minds when thinking about what Young could put up. When I drafted Young in my fantasy league I said guys, Young is going to be a monster this year, mark my words. I told my friends I expect around 26 homers and 115-125 RBI. So pretty much exactly what Seth is thinking, which makes me feel better that I am not going out on too much of a limb here. I do, however, think he will hit under .300, probably closer to hit career average of .290. I would take those numbers in a heartbeat, considering he is almost an afterthought on this team with Mauer and Morneau getting most of the attention. I would be happy if he came close to last year’s numbers to be honest, I mean all he did last year was hit 21 home runs, drive in 112 runs and hit .298. But I look for him to keep growing as a hitter and become a beast, becoming what many thought he would be when he was drafted number one overall.
If Young hits .290 with 25 home runs and 115 RBI he could be in the running for AL MVP. If he puts up Seth’s predicted numbers he might just win that award in 2011. And if he puts up those numbers, this could be one of the best offensive clubs in the American League.
Original Story:
http://www.twinsterritorytalk.com/201...
