The talented Mr. Fukudome

2 comments April 23rd, 2008

I was talking to a good friend of mine earlier today about how Kosuke Fukudome has greatly improved the dynamic of the Cubs lineup this season. My friend, Jeff, pointed out something interesting: Fukudome is averaging more pitches taken than anyone else in the league.

Sure enough, Fukudome ranks first in the MLB in number of pitches taken per plate appearance. In 86 plate appearances, he averages 4.70 pitches (Oakland’s Jack Hannahan is second at 4.48). Also, his 16 drawn walks leads the team.

Add to the fact that Fukudome (who generally bats in the middle of the order) has a MLB third-best OBP (.477) with a 1.23 walk-to-strike out ratio, and you have one of the most efficient/patient players in the sport…and that’s just 19 games into his MLB career.