Saturday, April 24, 2004
Something caught my eye as I was going over box scores today. Scott Podsednik is quietly getting off to an excellent start in his second full season in the majors. Through 19 games, Podsednik has scored 17 runs (currently tied for second in the NL behind Jeff Bagwell's 19), as well as amassing a nice little .309/.391/.524 at the top of the Brewers' order. He's also 12 for 12 in the steals department, which leaves him tied with Dave Roberts of the Dodgers for the major league lead (no one else has more than 7).
19 games is still a little early for taking season projections seriously, but if Podsednik can keep his steals pace up for the entire season he'd end with 102. Now, 102 straight successful steals is a bit much to swallow, but in 170+ games with the Brewers Podsednik's OBP has basically right at .380. It's not too far-fetched to think that Podsednik has a chance to attempt 100 steals, assuming he maintains a .380-something OBP. Given his 81% clip from last year, and his 85% rate considering this year's work in addition, a steals total in the low- to mid-80s in 100 tries is within reach.
If this actually comes to pass (and remember this is based off of only 19 games work so far this year, so take this analysis with a few grains of salt), Podsednik would only be the 14th player in major league history since 1901 to steal at least 80 bases in a single season. You can see the other players he would join here.
posted by Tom Renbarger 7:36 PM
