First: The Return Of The Ace
Clayton Kershaw returns Monday night in a start against the Reds at home. He’ll be making his 2019 debut after signing a three-year $93 million dollar contract this offseason and then starting the year on the disabled list with left shoulder problems.
You know the accolades of Kershaw, he’s a three time Cy Young winner, 2014 MVP and has a lifetime 2.39 ERA. He has been struggling as of late though, both with injuries and results. His velocity is down, and he’s going to have to continue his progression into the re-invented version of himself to find the level of success he once had.
To: He’s Coming
Vladimir Guerrero Jr is far more than just the best prospect in baseball, he may be the best prospect ever, and he’s coming. Vlad Jr missed some time early this season with an injury, but is now 5-10 in AAA. Vlad watch is of course heating up by now and people are wondering when he’s going to be coming. The answer: any day now.
“I wouldn’t call it day by day. We want to make sure he is built up and he has had some consistency to his playing time.” — #BlueJays GM Ross Atkins if Guerrero’s situation is being taken day by day or if he still needs a minimum amount of time in Buffalo.
— Gregor Chisholm (@gregorMLB) April 12, 2019
Third: Altuve May Be On Repeat Path
Jose Altuve, the 2017 AL MVP, is picking back up where that season left off after an injury plagued 2018. Altuve tied the major league record for second basemen when he hit his 5th home run in 5 days Saturday.
This season, Altuve is hitting .328 with seven home runs, 13 RBI and 12 runs. Altuve has always possessed more power than people would have expected, averaging 19 home runs per year with 24 in 2016 and 2017 each. Trout remains the laughable -175 favorite, but there’s plenty of value on Altuve at +1500.
