MLB 365 Projection: Alex Rodriguez

2007 - Yankees - .311/.409/.598, 46 HR, 111 runs, 132 RBI, 14 SB

It is uncommon for a major league player that posted an offensive line of .290/.392/.523 with 35 home runs, 113 runs, 121 RBI and 15 stolen bases to be considered an incredible disappointment, but Alex Rodriguez is held to a much higher standard than many. Such was the case for A-Rod during the entire 2006 season. The shortstop-turned-third baseman has received much criticism for his poor performance in post season appearances--a trend which continued in 2006, hitting .071 in the Yankees Divisional Series against the Detroit Tigers--and became the object of obsession for the majority of the regular season. Seemingly to his critics delight, A-Rod collapsed under the pressure in New York all season long. His 35 home runs was his lowest output since the 1997 season with the Seattle Mariners and his 24 errors at third led the American League.

This season however, A-Rod may be playing for a new contract. His original contract with the Rangers in 2000 allows an option-out clause effective after the 2007 season--meaning A-Rod may test the open market following this season similar to fellow [agent] Scott Boras client J.D. Drew did this past winter.

Expect a big season from Rodriguez this year as it becomes increasingly evident that the 31 year old may change scenery in 2008.