Key Stats: No shortstop had more home runs than J.J. Hardy's 30 last season. Troy Tulowitzki had as many home runs, but also had 39 more plate appearances. The way Hardy got to 30 was impressive as he was consistent in the months of June, July, and August with 7 or more home runs in each month. He missed most of April, but finished healthy which means last year could have actually been better. Skeptics Say: Hardy hit just 17 long balls in over 770 at-bats in the two seasons before the 2011 campaign, so consistency could be an issue. Keep in mind that last season he more than doubled his HR:FB rate versus the 2010 and 2009 season (his HR:FB rate was second among shortstops to Tulo). He also will not steal more than a base or two next season which is important when considering the speed of the alternatives at the position as we highlighted in the Jhonny Peralta player profile.
Peer Comparison: I think it's important to compare across positions when doing these profiles bec...
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