MLB: Ten Worst Position Players in Baseball
By Gavin Lee
10. Jay Bruce
2016: 95 PA, .244/.305/.477, 99 wRC+, -0.3 fWAR
When Jay Bruce first came up with the Reds in 2008, he was a massively hyped prospect that came with tremendous power potential. He quickly proved he could hit at the MLB level, banging 21 home runs in his rookie season, and 164 in his first six seasons. He played an average if not plus right field during that time, making him very valuable.
In 2014 though everything changed. On May 5th of that year he underwent surgery to repair his torn meniscus in his left knee, similar to the surgery Blue Jay Michael Saunders underwent at the beginning of last season. Bruce would miss only two weeks after the surgery, but hasn’t been the same player since.
In the time since his 2014 return, he has hit .225/.284/.418 and has seen his range in right decrease dramatically. His -1.2 fWAR over that time has been the third lowest total in the league.
The connection to Saunders doesn’t end with surgery, as he was rumored to be in a deal for the Blue Jay earlier this year. That trade ultimately fell through because of the medicals of a minor league player, but the Blue Jays must be thanking their lucky stars after Bruce’s weak start again this year.
Saunders for his part is off to a strong campaign, providing some hope for Bruce’s future. If he can come back from a similar injury, perhaps Bruce can as well. He would rank higher on this list if it weren’t for his slightly-promising .233 ISO this season. Let’s hope Bruce can get back to the slugger he once was.
Next: Number 9