1. In Safeco, the 285/350/350 line is pretty close to a 100 OPS+ .. which is pretty much what Figgins was doing for the Angels. Leadoff hitters can sometimes bat 100 OPS+ and still be stars.
2. A league-average hitter is giving you about 20 runs more than a Rainiers callup would.
3. Figgins adds 10, 15 runs playing third base, or so we believe.
4. Figgins adds 10 runs, or something, with his legs.
5. Leadoff hitters can manufacture runs in tight games ... when Justin Verlander is locking you down and Jack Cust is useless, an Ichiro or Figgins can scrap his way on, steal a base, and score you one run in a 2-1 game. It ain't 3 RBI with one swing, but it can occur against tough pitching.
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A leadoff hitter playing great infield defense, helping you on the basepaths, is a well above average player despite the mediocre hitting line...
Question of course is whether we actually receive those goods and services ...
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