Asdrubal Cabrera’s impressive offensive numbers have been pivotal in the Indians’ fast start, and have been strong enough to earn him the Co-AL Player of the Week, sharing the title with Paul Konerko of the White Sox.
Cabrera is most often associated with his strong defensive abilities, but has taken his offense to a whole new level this season. Off to a solid .316 start, the shortstop already has three home runs and nine RBI’s this season, leading the Tribe in both categories. To add some perspective to that stat, Cabrera has never hit more than six home runs in an entire season.
Cabrera’s increased power has come from his new approach at the plate. He is no longer choking up on the bat early in the count, giving him much more power to drive the ball. Cabrera’s offense has provided more opportunities for the heart of the Indians lineup, as well as taking some heat of Shin Soo Choo, who hits behind Cabrera. If these numbers persist, Choo will benefit from having strong hitters both in front of him, and behind him in Travis Hafner, a luxury Choo did not have last season.
If Cabrera keeps up the fast start, he will be on pace to shatter his career high’s of six home runs and 68 RBI’s, while giving the Indians a legitimate shot to stay on top of the AL Central. You can also look for Cabrera to earn AL Player of the Week honors a few more times this season.
–Jamie Arkin