Presenting the 2012 National League MVP...

Joey Votto made all the headlines with his mega-millions contract, but Jay Bruce will be the king of Cincinnati by the end of the season. On pace to hit 162 home runs and drive in a staggering 810 runs this year, the young right fielder will have to learn quick how to deal with overnight stardom. He was an All-Star last year, but still played in the shadows of Votto and Brandon Phillips. This year, it’s his turn to shine.

Now, I don’t understand the mathematics behind Bill James’ Favorite Toy, but it cannot be sound reasoning. According to it, #32 will finish with just over 300 dingers in his career, despite already having 103 at age 25. What, his career is already a third over statistically? No way. I call shenanigans. 861 total RBI? Hardly worth the trillions the Reds are shelling out. I think there must be a kink in James’ system.

About these ads