Angels Preview: Shortstop

by user The Beast

Can Cabrera fix his defensive struggles?

Orlando Cabrera returns as the Angels' starting shortstop and team defensive captain. However, last season, Cabrera had an uncharacteristically rough year in the field, committing 16 errors, nine more than he had in 2005.

In 2005, he and the Angels were tied for the best fielding percentage in the Major Leagues. However, they finished last in the AL in the category last season. Cabrera said that had a huge impact, telling the media, "I think our defense was shady. Sometimes it was really, really bad. I can say, too, that the three elements we needed to be successful weren't there at the same time: pitching, hitting and defense. It was just a moment, probably a few games over two months, that we put it together but never consistently."

That said, he still managed to improve offensively in just his second season with the Angels. He hit .282 and led the team with 95 runs scored and 45 doubles. Cabrera also batted third for much of the year and enjoyed a streak not seen in more than half a century, where he reached base safely by a hit, walk or hit by pitch in 63 straight games, which is the sixth highest all-time. Ted Williams set the record of 84 straight games in 1949.

Maicer Izturis, who held down third base for much of last season, will back Cabrera up at shortstop. Erick Aybar will also spell Cabrera if needed.

Overal Grade: B. Cabrera can hit and is a team leader, but his defense last year was awful.

Also featured at http://socalsportsblog.blogspot.com/2007/02/angels-preview-shortstop.html.