Where is Alex Rodriguez, you asked? How about Grady Sizemore and Nick Swisher? There was even a really big Xavier Nady fan complaining I left him out. Um, people, the purpose of Tuesday's blog wasn't to list every player who is going to hit 10 or more home runs. Yes, I think A-Rod might just squeak by (49 homers), as well as Sizemore (29), Swisher (31), Nady (22) and more than a hundred others as well. The point was to pick some interesting combinations of players in the 10-40 range. There was great feedback on the blog, and good debate about some of the hot button hitters. To see projections on every hitter, check out our draft kit.
I knew this going in, but the one number that seemed to elicit the most anger was 28, which was the home run total I predicted for Albert Pujols and Travis Hafner. Fans of the Cardinals and Indians didn't agree, of course, as well as the people who have already drafted these fellas, or plan to. Oddly enough, those who didn't get Pujols and Hafner, they agreed. Funny how that works out.
Yes, I am aware how well Pujols is doing this spring, and how many home runs he has. It's irrelevant to me. I wasn't questioning Pujols' ability to hit for power and average, but his health for the long term, which is the next six months. I still do. Frankly, it would be nice if he saved the wear and tear on the elbow rather than showing off against beleaguered Adam Loewen, who probably shouldn't make the Orioles this month. Could Pujols hit 40 home runs? Sure he could. Draft him in Round 1 if you like. I have a draft this weekend with the No. 6 pick, and Pujols isn't on my radar. I doubt he will be in the second round as well.
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Eric Karabell
