Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Reds call up Jay Bruce


The Jay Bruce Era has arrived.

I always laugh when somebody gets their own era. As if we know this player is going to be an automatic smash hit. There's usually a reason, after all, why someone is still in the minors.

But Bruce's numbers through 49 games with AAA Louisville suggest an era may be starting.


  • 10 home runs

  • 37 RBI

  • .364 average

  • 9 doubles

  • 5 triples

  • 8 stole base

Of course, the one number folks don't talk about much is the 45 strikeouts in 184 at-bats. Typical of power hitters, Bruce's K rate is the biggest reason it's taken this long for him to get the call, but as a fantasy owner, the Ks don't pull down a player's value.


Just look at Ryan Howard.


The biggest question surrounding Bruce, who just turned 21, is will he play everyday. The Reds GM Walt Jocketty has been quoted as saying Bruce will not be called up to sit the bench. After all, he was named Minor League Player of the Year by both Baseball American and The Sporting News.


I picked up Bruce on Friday, letting Eric Byrnes go. And while Bruce may not make sense for everyone, his upside is likely worth a spot on 8 out of 10 mixed league rosters. And he will certainly be scooped up in every NL-only league.


The Reds may be trading away Ken Griffey Jr. soon after he hits No. 600 (he's sitting at 598 right now), which would open up a corner OF spot for Bruce, who can also play center. Cincinnati cutting Scott Hatteberg today makes a Griffey trade seem even more likely.


Either way, Bruce should play at least 5 times a week and if he performs, you'll see him out there every day.


Go grab him now.

0 comments: