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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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OF Tommy Pham – St. Louis Cardinals

Scott Rovak, USA TODAY Sports
Scott Rovak, USA TODAY Sports /

In 2015, the 27-year-old Pham got his first real taste of major league action (in 2014 he had 2 ABs). Over the course of 52 games he hit .268/.347/.477. This line, along with an 11% BB rate, was good enough for a 125 wRC+. Pham’s contributions weren’t limited to the plate as he played just above league average defense in center field based on DRS and UZR numbers.

Like Bird, Pham has shown he can produce. Also like Bird, though, the amount of playing time that he will see in 2016 remains a major question mark. As of today the Cardinals starting outfield would consist of Matt Holliday, Randal Grichuk, and Stephen Piscotty. As long as Grichuk stays healthy and productive, Pham will remain a fourth outfielder at best.

Just like Bird, one slump or injury is all that stands between Pham and regular playing time. His track record suggests that if he’s given the opportunity he could be a productive fixture in the St. Louis outfield.

Next: OF Hyun-Soo Kim - Baltimore Orioles

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