The Shallow
Mike Cameron – Outfield (CF)
Interesting way to shag flies Mike!
The Milwaukee Brewers 36-year old outfielder will not shock anyone with what he brings to the dish. Consistent in his annual numbers, he provides a nice plus in several hitting categories, and plays good defense to make you comfortable that he won’t be sw apped out for a defensive replacement late in Brew Crew games.
While he is only a career .250 hitter, Cameron will typically hit 20 round trippers, and swipe close to 20 bags each and every year. His statistics may be slightly modified in 2009, as it appears that he will be locked in the six-slot of a decent Brewers line-up, hitting behind Prince Fielder, and JJ Hardy which may affect his R and SB totals, and slightly boost his RBI chances.
Has Cameron also discovered new-found patience at the plate? Early on this year he hasn’t been swinging at quite the torrid pace he has in the past. If the veteran ‘toolsy’ OF continues to be more selective, he will certainly warrant a waiver wire pickup for those needing some extra help in their outfield.
One way or another, fantasy managers that could use a boost in a couple of categories can always use a guy like Mike Cameron. Just beware, he can be an injury risk - and careful not to grab him during one of his infamous slumps. But, for the 162 game haul, his 15-year track record provides enough evidence that his stats will be there at year’s end.
The Deep
Aaron Hill – Second Base (2B)
Off to a tremendous start, many may have forgotten this bluebird, and his potential, after missing most of the 2008 season with concussion-like symptoms. Fortunately the Jays didn’t forget about him – and neither should you!
Popping 17 HR’s and driving in 78 while hitting at a .291 clip in 2007, Hill got off to a slow start in ’08, and after the injury, most had written off the former first round pick.
Hill worked hard, and waited to be symptom free, and has come back with a vengeance by leading a very under-rated Jays offense to first place in the AL East.
The Toronto Blue Jays are scoring runs at will and Hill is leading the charge. With good extra base power, (47 doubles in 2007 to go along with the HR power) decent speed and good plate discipline at a somewhat scarce position, Hill may rise to the top of the middle tier should he be able to grow on his fast start.
Expect 80-.280-15-55-5 type numbers should he, and the Jays be able to avoid running into the type of injuries that they have the past few seasons.
