RYAN ZIMMERMAN
AVG PROJECTION: .238-.260 OBP PROJECTION: .295-.322 SLG PROJECTION: .401-.448 WAR ESTIMATE: -0.5-0.6
The computers have Ryan Zimmerman all over the place. The Nats hope after last year, the only place his numbers can go are up. And, the models agree.
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Steamer, not the most bullish usually, are the high end of all three projections with ZiPS on the conservative side. With Zimmerman, if he continues to hit the ball hard in the air, he can make the bar set by ZiPS. Steamer’s numbers, particularly the .260 batting average, are wildly optimistic.
The models see Zimmerman between 13-16 home runs and 20-23 doubles. The latter would be an increase over his 18 last year while the homer numbers are in line with 2016.
With Adam Lind as his back up, expect Zimmerman to receive a fair amount of rest. If he struggles at the start, the schedule is tough quick and Zimmerman might find the bench.
Although his best days are behind him, there is no reason with good coaching and a constant eye in mechanics that Zimmerman can hit these numbers. Coming off a year hitting .218, that is easy if healthy.
Next: Zimmerman Finds His Groove
He rebounded well this spring after a sluggish start. For a fan favorite, here is hoping the models are right and this is a good year.