A current Major League Player that is undervalued is Allen Craig of the St. Louis Cardinals. Allen Craig made $1,750,000 in 2013, which was his age 28 season. In 2014, Craig will make $2,750,000, and $5,500,000 in 2015 at age 30. Allen Craig has played most positions at the professional level with the exception of Pitcher, Catcher, and Shortstop. This Cardinal had most recently played Outfield and 1st Base in 2013, but it is uncertain what position Craig will play in 2014.
If you consider the escalating salaries for other Major League players at those positions, Craig’s salary is an incredible bargain. If you want to talk about bang for your buck, one can make a compelling argument for this player. Over four years, Craig has averaged 562 at bats, 84 runs, 172 hits, 37 doubles, 22 home runs, .306 AVG, .358 OBP, .492 Slg % and an .850 OPS per season. In addition, Allen Craig was named to his first All-Star Game in 2013.
Some other statistics of interest are the 1st Baseman’s outrageous batting average with RISP (.454) and bases loaded (.700). Craig outpaced Miguel Cabrera by 54 points regarding average with RISP. These impressive numbers were good for 1st and 3rd place respectively in all of baseball for the 2013 season.
Overall, Allen Craig’s tremendous all-out effort, regardless of where he plays in the field, combined with his clutch offensive production makes him a Cardinal fan-favorite.
I think he should be the starting right fielder. What do you think?
ReplyDeleteMike,
ReplyDeleteIt probably would make sense since Carlos Beltran went to the Yankees and Matt Adams is not as versatile. You want Adam's bat in the lineup, so, First Base is more of a logical option.