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5 MLB Players Due for Bounce back Seasons in 2016

By Nick Fustor

August 13, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Yasiel Puig (66) reacts after striking out in the first inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
August 13, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Yasiel Puig (66) reacts after striking out in the first inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /
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5. Yasiel Puig – LAD

Injuries limited Yasie Puig in 2015, but he looks poised to dominate in 2016.  Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Injuries limited Yasie Puig in 2015, but he looks poised to dominate in 2016.  Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

Projected Stats: .287/.339/.487, 21 HR, 72 RBI, 5.7 WAR

After bursting onto the scene and leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to the playoffs in 2013, Yasiel Puig followed his rookie year up with an equally impressive sophomore campaign. But in 2015, Puig saw his stock take a major dip as his batting average fell 41 points and his walk and strikeout rates went in the wrong directions.

While injuries can be blamed for much of Puig’s ineffectiveness, his slash line of .255/.322/.436 and 11 home runs were a far cry from what was expected of him entering the season.  After slimming down this offseason, Puig could be in line for a healthy and productive 2016 season.

In a lineup featuring Adrian Gonzalez, Corey Seager and plenty of other productive hitters, Puig has less pressure on him than in years past.  Despite seeing his walk rate decrease and strikeouts increase last season, Puig posted career-best numbers in both categories just a season earlier and can quickly return to his dominant self if healthy.

While he likely won’t be suspended due to domestic violence allegations, Puig needs a strong season to erase any concerns surrounding his actions on and off the field.  If he manages to keep up his increased power from last season, Puig will once again be considered one of the game’s premier outfielders.

Next: Number 4

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