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5 MLB Hitters Ready to Breakout in 2016

By Eric Roseberry

Sep 20, 2015; New York City, NY, USA; New York Yankees first baseman Greg Bird (31) rounds the bases on his three run home run during the eighth inning against the New York Mets at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 20, 2015; New York City, NY, USA; New York Yankees first baseman Greg Bird (31) rounds the bases on his three run home run during the eighth inning against the New York Mets at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /
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1B Greg Bird – New York Yankees

Anthony Gruppuso, USA TODAY Sports
Anthony Gruppuso, USA TODAY Sports /

On August 13 of last season the Yankees called up the 23 year old Bird. Prior to his call up he split time in Double-A and Triple-A, hitting a combined .277/.356/.469. Upon his arrival in the majors he didn’t disappoint. Over the course of 46 games he hit .261/.343/.529 to go along with 11 HRs and 31 RBI.

Bird has already proven he can produce offensively. He’s been above average relative to his league every step of the way since A ball. All signs, outside of a high K% last season, point to Bird producing at an above-league-average rate once he is given regular playing time.

The major question mark for Bird in 2016 is whether or not he will get enough at-bats to truly breakout. Mark Teixeira is in the final year of his contract, and he will start the season at first base. Alex Rodriguez, who experienced a resurgence in 2015 following a long suspension, will likely be the Yankees opening day starter at DH. As of this time Bird is blocked at his two most likely positions.

Even though both of his positions appear to be filled, there is still a good chance Bird could see significant playing time next season. Teixeira’s injury history is well documented, and it was an injury a year ago that prompted Bird’s call up in the fist place.

Rodriguez’s offensive resurgence was impressive, but there are lingering questions about whether or not the 40 year old (41 in July) will be able to keep producing. It’s possible that Bird could be stuck behind several Yankee veterans for one more season, but one injury or slump could provide all of the opportunity that he needs to become a fixture in the Yankees offense for years to come.

Next: OF Tommy Pham - St. Louis Cardinals

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