MLB 365 Projection: Mark Teixeira

2007 – Rangers – .302/.386/.585/.971, 41 HR, 129 RBI, 44 2B, 108 R

In 2005, Mark Teixeira posted some of the greatest power numbers in modern day history. Teixeira hit .301/.379/.575 (.954 OPS) in 2005 with 43 home runs, 41 doubles, 112 runs and an AL best 144 RBI. Prior to the All-Star break last season, Teixeira’s numbers failed to impress. Through out the first 88 games (353 at bats), Mark was hitting a modest .275/.353/.445 with only 9 home runs. Although his home run total was down, Teixeira hit 31 doubles before the break. After the break however, Teixeira posted incredible power numbers. For his final 74 games (275 at bats), Mark managed a line of .291/.394/.604 (.998 OPS) with an astounding 24 home runs (11.46 at bats per home run) and 61 RBI-finishing the year with a respectable .282/.371/.514 (.885 OPS).

Last season, Teixeira also struggled at home. Ameriquest Field in Arlington, Texas is widely considered one of baseball’s most hitter friendly environments. In 2005, Teixeira only managed a .266/.336/.455 (.791 OPS) at home with only 12 home runs in 2005-compared to .298/.406/.577 (.983 OPS) and 21 home runs on the road.

Mark is also one of the AL’s top defensive first basemen and is coming off of back to back Gold Glove seasons.

With all of the departures this offseason in Texas, the Rangers will definitely expect Mark Teixeira to serve as their primary run producer. Teixeira will benefit from the expertise of longtime Rangers’ hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo this spring. Jaramillo recently signed a contract extension and declined the opportunity to interview for the head management vacancy. If he remains consistent through out the season and improves his numbers at home, Teixeira is a definite candidate to win the AL MVP.