14 thoughts on “September 10, 2023: Clever”

  1. So, how much has Max's improved second half been due to his not being an everyday, leadoff hitter, and instead sitting periodically against some lefties and being used, for example, in bases loaded PH opportunities? He's useful if he can be utilized correctly

    1. I’d chalk it up to the motivation of an option that looked likely to be declined and dreadful free agent prospects as a center field capable, light-hitting corner outfielder who refuses to play out of position.

      1. I'm guessing he's been dealing with an injury and suddenly got healthy. I know players can slump but he's been so bad that something had to be going on.

        1. It’s a bit of hyperbole. Did Kepler enjoy regressing below even his modest 96 OPS+ into a guy that pounded balls into the the dirt on the right side harder than a five-year old killing a joke that was mildly funny the first time? Probably not.

          When his bat wouldn’t carry his roster spot and his team’s Platinum Glove center fielder couldn’t get on the field, he didn’t show some veteran leadership and volunteer to fill in occasionally for the good of the team. He just drove 13 OPS+ points below league average while prospects stacked up behind him.

          Kepler was looking like the kind of free agent who needs a season in the KBO to get his swing figured out. I’m sure his turnaround stems from a guy belatedly figuring something out…but it makes you wonder why it took so long for him to see the handwriting on the wall.

  2. Headed to the baseball game soon. Since it's the only game the wife is going to get to this year I splurged on the tickets, we're behind home plate, fifteen rows up with Pablo pitching. Go Twins!

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