Real-to-the-Deal, Part II: 1B

In case you haven't noticed, there is no rhyme of reason to the positions I pick.

Ryan Shealy-

Everyone seems down on this guy (everyone but the Royals that is).

Take Rob Neyer for instance: "I'm not quite as optimistic as you about Shealy, but of course I loved the acquisition and he'll do just fine for now. For all the talk about the young guys, Shealy might be the Royals' best hitter in 2007." For a league where guys are playing later and later in their career, is 27 such a bad thing? He's still considered young, not a prospect, but that's OK, not every guy needs to be awesome and in the Majors at 22. Shealy can still have a fine 6 or 7 or 8 year career in the Bigs; as long as he CAN HIT.

The only proof we will really get is over the next few years (if he lasts that long). Here's what we can project though, and that is OK, his numbers are pretty good. And remember, these numbers in no way reflect Colorado air. He spent his minors and college away from the "Thin Air" state.

In 02 for Florida, Shealy had a OPS of over 1100. Good players usually hover around 900-1000 and he hit .379 with 23 HRs, and 80 RBIs. Another bonus? His K:BB ratio, which was outstanding - 31:36. He walked more than he KOed!

In all three years in the minors, Shealy averaged a OPS of 967 with an average of 23 HRs per year and 87 RBIs per year. His K:BB ratio wasn't as good, but these are professional pitchers! 106:48; not great, but not Adam Dunn by any means.

Should a 1B hit more than 23 HRs a season? Yes, and maybe Shealy has this type of production, but more than power, a hitter should be able to produce. I look for Shealy to hover around .300, 20-30 HRs, and 90-110 RBIs. Of course, the RBIs could be way off if no one gets on base for the Royals.

I'll take these numbers and by the end of the season, he should be our best offensive player (unless Gordon comes up and makes the transition). I don't look for Mark Teahen to replicate these numbers, but we'll get to that when we discuss the OF/3B.