Hunter Renfroe, outfielder, San Diego Padres
Playing a full season in AAA last year, Renfroe hit 30 home runs and slugged at .557. When he finally got to the majors in September, the power didn’t go away.
Hunter Renfroe: "You really don't feel anything. It's kind of like 'spat' and … it disappears real quick, and you know it's a home run." pic.twitter.com/2eze6hlhWz
— AJ Cassavell (@AJCassavell) September 29, 2016
In only 35 at-bats, Renfroe hit four long balls and slugged at .800.
Granted, a 60 home-run season is probably not in the cards, so we’re not expecting that kind of clip again. But as the presumed starting right fielder entering the year, we are expecting Renfroe to show a lot of power.
The bad news is that the Padres still boast a rather unimpressive lineup. So statistically, Renfroe may struggle to drive in (or score) many runs.
There’s some good news there, too.
One, playing time isn’t likely to be a big problem. Two, Renfroe figures to bat near the top of the San Diego order. If he’s not batting right in front of or behind Wil Myers to start the year, expect him to slide into one of those spots in the early going. So, he’ll get a lot of at-bats in the prime part of the order.
Look for that to translate into a big statistical year, giving Padres fans a key youngster to pin their hopes on for a brighter future.