RADIO
Pirates leadoff hitter Gregory Polanco slashed a .256/.320/.381 line last year during his first full big league season, improving on the .235/.307/.343 line he posted in his 89 game rookie campaign. Belting nine HRs and accumulating 27 SBs during 2015, Polanco also demonstrated the plate discipline of a seasoned veteran. Maintaining an excellent 8.4 BB% and 18.6 K%, the Pirates right fielder demonstrated the skills to work walks and avoid strikeouts.
To take the next step in 2016, Polanco will need to build on the 2015 second half in which he hit six home runs and 20 doubles. A large reason for his uptick in power was his consistent ability to hit the ball in the air. Polanco’s GB%, which was 48.7% during 2015’s first half and 49.5% during 2014, decreased to 42.1% after the all-star break. Hitting more line drives and fly balls, Polanco utilized the raw power of his 6’4 220lb frame in route to a .276/.324/.425 second half slash line. If Polanco’s second half improvements carry over into 2016, he will have an opportunity to belt 15 HRs to go along with his expected 30 SBs.
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