Corey Patterson’s game-tying Grand Slam in the 9th inning last-night, was just the latest ‘feel good’ moment this year for the lefty-hitting OF.
At one point in his career, Patterson was considered one of baseballs best overall prospects. (Baseball America ranked Patterson as the 2nd-best prospect in all of baseball in 2001)
We all know the soon-to-be 31 year-old never lived up to that hype. In 2009 Patterson spent all but 16 games back in AAA, splitting the year between Nashville and Syracuse. After that level of humbling, he easily could have packed things in and called it a career. He attempted to latch on to a MLB team this Spring, and when it did not happen; wound up in Norfolk for the Birds. He took advantage of that opportunity and tore things up during 57 at-bats with the Tides, earning his way back to the Bigs.
You have to credit him for sticking with it.
I have to admit I was not real excited when he was promoted back to Baltimore. Despite the struggles of Reimold after going back to Norfolk, I could argue it probably still made more sense to be giving Reimold the regular Major League at-bats over Patterson.
The bottom-line though is that Patterson has produced. He is closing in on 200 at-bats for Baltimore this year, and he has a .762 OPS. Of his 56 hits, he has 10 doubles, and 5 homers.
The number you probably question is his .340 on-base %, which is 47 points above his career percentage. That increase is being driven entirely by an increase to his batting average (.292) that is 38 points above his career average. (.254).
Still, even if/when Patterson regresses closer to his career numbers I think I like what Patterson brings as a 4th OF. Patterson is not signed for 2011, but I think the O’s should bring him back. As a guy able to back up Center, and Left with athleticism and pop in his bat – he can certainly help.
Of course the only reason I can envision Patterson as a 4th OF for the Birds in ’11, is that I continue to envision Reimold taking over 1st, with Pie everyday in LF.
Owner
Chris Stoner founded Baltimore Sports and Life in 2009. He has appeared as a radio guest with 1090 WBAL, 105.7 The Fan, CBS 1300, Q1370, WOYK 1350, WKAV 1400, and WNST 1570. He has also been interviewed by The Baltimore Sun, Baltimore Business Journal, and PressBox (TV). As Owner, his responsibilities include serving as the Managing Editor, Publicist, & Sales Director.