While Addison Russell‘s bat hasn’t quite heated up to expectations this season, the 22-year-old SS has provided one of the best gloves in the National League at a premium position. While there’s no doubt he has the tools to hit much higher than his .227 average (entering play on Tuesday), his plus glove makes his struggles at the plate (hitting .170 in June) easier to stomach.
There’s little reason to worry over his offensive numbers, as he’s entering his first full season in the big leagues and will continue to make adjustments with his swing and become quicker to the ball, as the youngster has struggled against fastballs this season.
Russell has the luxury of being in a lineup where there isn’t a lot of pressure for him to carry the offense, however at some point his offensive contributions will be needed, and a welcomed addition to an already vaunted Cubs attack. During various points this season he has shown flashes of power which has scouts salivating with the belief he could become a 20-25 homerun bat.
While his metrics show he doesn’t have elite range, however it is still very good and combined with his smooth transition, quick release, good arm, and excellent accuracy it allows him to make the routine as well as the fantastic plays that not all players can make at his position. He’s already been good for 5 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) and a Defensive Runs Above Average (DEF) of 6.6.
Russell will be a premium National League SS for years to come and could consistently hit .260 – .270 once he has everything figured out. With the quality of his glove, that offensive production could make Russell a perennial All-Star, especially since he plays in the Chicago market.