January 09, 2007

Valenitn's production

Marty Noble at Mets.com, writes about Jose Valentin and how he thinks his production will go after the decline late last season:


Let's start with Valentin. The decline he experienced last season occurred in September, not the second half. And if anyone does know what caused it -- fatigue, an undisclosed injury, the sudden onset of being 36 or just happenstance -- it is he alone. Sometimes slumps just happen to vibrant, energized, healthy, young players.

So if the cause is unknown, analyzing the likelihood of Valentin having another fine season -- and 2006 was that -- is an exercise in speculation. This much I can say: I wouldn't be surprised if he matched his 2006 or fell short of matching it. I would be surprised if he improved on it.

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