A look at the ZiPS projections for the new Astros right fielder, Josh Reddick.
Expectations are high in 2017 with our new acquisitions of Brian McCann, Carlos Beltran, and Josh Reddick. Beltran and McCann have well-known track records. They played veteran roles with respective teams, each of which ending with the Yankees. Bringing their veteran leadership to the Astros young clubhouse will no doubt bring these Astros to new heights in 2017.
But what to expect from Josh Reddick?
What we do know now is that Reddick is a Texas-friendly player happy to be coming back south to his routes and dial it down redneck style.
Reddick was formally touted as a great hitting prospect when he was drafted in the 17th round in 2006 by the Boston Red Sox. Reddick has also added Golden Glove accolades to his growing resume. His best season came in 2012, when with the Oakland A’s. He hit 32 home runs, stole 11 bases, drove in 85 runs. He also came in 16th in the MVP voting that year.
Josh Reddick, the Houston Astro
Now entering his 9th major league season with the up-and-coming Astros. Reddick is expected to bring his lefty bat to a right-handed heavy squad and get on base for the bottom of the lineup. Taking over for George Springer in right (who will now move to center field), Reddick brings his gold glove to a stacked Astros outfield.
As for his hitting expectations, the 2017 ZiPS projections for Josh Reddick this year has him batting .285 and hitting 17 home runs, driving in 59 and stealing seven bases. More than a definitive upgrade to last years’ #7 hitter, what we can expect from Reddick is stability to the bottom of the order. Getting on base and driving in the power hitters in front of him.
Having signed a four-year, 52-million-dollar contract, expectations are high for the 30-year-old outfielder. Along with Reddick’s new veteran teammates and young core of hitters, the Astros should rake through the 2017 season.
Next: Should the Astros target Danny Duffy or Yordano Ventura?
Luhnow knew he needed to get better defensively and stronger from the left side of the plate and certainly achieved that with the Reddick signing.
***Stats from Fangraphs ZiPS projections***