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Tim Anderson 2021 Outlook: Elite Batting Average Makes Up for Dwindling Speed
4 years agoChicago White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson proved that his AL-leading .335 batting average from 2019 was no fluke. He followed with a .322 average backed by a .293 xBA that ranked in the top 10% for a second straight year. Unfortunately, Anderson didn't run as frequently in 2020, stealing five bases in seven attempts. His sprint speed remains top-notch so it was simply a matter of the Sox running less while relying on their numerous power bats to manufacture runs via the long ball. Only six teams attempts fewer stolen bases. Whether new (old) skipper Tony La Russa and his old school mentality will lead to more running remains to be seen. In his last several seasons managing St. Louis, his tendency to steal 2nd base hovered around 6% which was barely above Rich Renteria's 5% mark. Anderson is sure to deliver a high average and run totals but it's unlikely he will return 20 steals over a full season. With several other shortstops able to provide higher power totals, Anderson doesn't quite rank in the top eight at the position. He is a terrific fallback option, however, for those who don't prioritize shortstop early. His early ADP of 41 overall is overly optimistic, so it's advisable to wait a bit longer.
