Arthur Gandolfi went 56-106 in his first year at the helm and most would write it off as a rookie learning year. But further analysis reveals Gandolfi was planting the seeds for success. A look at the numbers tell the story.
ROTATION
Gallen 560 Nola 604 Quintana 645 Stripling 614 Otto 734
WD. Smith c 807 N. Lowe 1b 851 Giminez 2b 837 JP Crawford ss 675 Renifigo 3b 724 Brantley of 785 Harris of 853 Judge of 1111 Hiura dh 765
BENCH
Arcia if 733 Kredler if 477 Marsh of 679 Peterson of 698 Villar if 787 Wynns c 571
ANALYSIS
This team has alot of story lines. It is simply outrageous to believe a team can go from 56 wins to a World Series championship but that is where the numbers take us. Then you think of the 69 Mets or the 67 Red Sox as teams who rose from the ashes to World Series appearances.
Did Judge deserve a 22 MLB MVP ?? I would say no as long as Ohtani is on our planet but I am sure Gandolfi would disagree. He will enjoy watching Judge chase the SSL record for most HRs in a season but Barry Bonds (110) name will be hard to erase from the record books.
Nola, Gallen, Quintana and Stripling can all win during the regular season and in a playoff game. The bullpen, like many others in this league, is simply outstanding. Almonte and Ed. Diaz are closers in anyone's bullpen and there is just a stream of quality arms waiting to dominate opposing hitters.
The lineup can just wear out any pitching staff. Judge has plenty of support with Smith, Lowe, Giminez and Harris all hitting above the 800 mark.In fact, Crawford is the only starter hitting 675 or below. The bench offers defense, pinch hitters and versatility, everything you can ask for from a bench.
The numbers say the Highlanders will run away with a AL West title and win the 23 World Series. On the other hand, that prediction is alot of pressure to place on a team which only won 56 games in 22. It will be interesting to see if Gandolfi can deliver for Highlander nation.
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