posted on Sunday, July 09, 2006 2:20 AM by Jim

Midseason Review: Juan Uribe

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Something nice:  After waiting a couple months for Juan Uribe to turn it around, his bat has finally caught up with his glove.  And in his trademark style, he's been able to carry the Sox for stretches at a time. 

Must improve:  Since streakiness is in his DNA, there's no use talking about his bat.  His glove has been fine, but for whatever reason he had a rough patch when trying to turn two.  It seems to have been resolved, but it's worth keeping an eye on.  That strength can't become a weakness.

Three best games

May 29
In maybe the best at-bat of the year, Juan Uribe went down 1-2 early in the count, but after fouling off seven pitches, he hit a two-run homer.  An unusually feisty at-bat for one of baseball's most impatient hitters.

June 23
Juan's best game of the year, with an RBI single, an RBI double, and a two-run homer against the Cubs.

July 4
Uribe nearly matched his output in the Cubs game, once against having three hits and five RBI, this time against the Orioles.  The funny thing is that he struck out twice and stranded four runners, missing a couple more RBI opportunities.  The Sox won 13-0, so it didn't matter.
 
Three worst games

May 6
The Sox beat the Royals 9-2, but Uribe goes 0-for-4 with two strikeouts to cause his average to sink to a season-low .161.

May 21
Uribe botches the relay toss on a routine double play against the Cubs.  Instead of getting out of the inning, the Cubs tie the game, then go on to take the lead. 

May 27
With Jose Contereras on the verge of extending his winning streak, Uribe again blows his bid for a victory when he messes up another double play.

Grades

Bat: C
It's coming around, but ultimately it could be considered a disappointment.  It'd be a lower grade if he didn't singlehandedly win the Sox a few games with it.  He's on pace for under 20 walks -- it'll be interesting to see if the left side of the infield can draw 50 walks combined.  It's a compelling over/under bet.

Running:  B-
I haven't seen as many dumb Uribe mistakes on the basepaths in comparison to last year. 

Fielding:  B+
His range is there, his arm is as good as ever, and I wouldn't trade him for anybody with the glove -- once again, it's just the double plays.

Awards

Player of the Week, June 25-July 1
Gold Glove, June 11-17
Player of the Weak, June 4-10
Hands of Stone, June 4-10
Hands of Stone, May 14-20
Player of the Weak, April 30-May 6
Player of the Weak, April 23-29
Gold Glove, April 2-8

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