SSI Crunch: SSI always thought it was too bad that Bucky Jacobsen ate himself out of a career; I'd have liked to have seen whether he might not have had a couple of 90-RBI seasons, if healthy.
I am partial to these WWF Hulk Hogans who move easily, who are light on their feet and who sport those hilariously-compact routes to the pitch. Bucky Jacobsen was able to stay very compact to the ball and still drive it hard .... of course, McGwire is the reductio ad absurdum here.
But rest assured that Poythress is in the same category.
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Even the complaints about his footwork and speed seem superficial: check out his NFL TE work on this leaping catch. Check the agility as it relates to his body weight. See the quick little double-step and how he gets off the ground quickly?
Poythress moves like a young McGwire, not like a young Fielder -- he moves easily, comfortably. And the man played 3B in college. Reports of his defensive death may be greatly exaggerated.
The body control is a BIG factor on this kind of player. We remember Bill James being sold on Frank Thomas, in large part, because Thomas was light on his feet.
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Dr's Prognosis: If Rich Poythress is going to be a cleanup hitter in the big leagues, I'll want to see him prove it this year, in the high minors. If he's slugging .500+ at the break in AA/AAA baseball, watch out for this guy and watch out big.
Couldn't disagree more with HQ's characterization 'lacks trigger and load in his swing.' I see his swing as a ticket to simplifying the game and wreaking havoc, and the saber results do not contradict.
Was prepared to write this amigo up as a Bryan LaHair, but no can do. Eyes slideways on Rich Poythress.
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Thumbs Up / Down: Two thumbs up, with gusto. His 2011 is a pivot year, in my book. Poor year, he's Bucky II, in a good way. Big year, he's got a great shot at pulling an Adam Dunn.
Of all the hitters we plowed through in the 16-35 section, Poythress was the most pleasant surprise. Him and Choi.
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Cheerio,
Dr D
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