Garrett Atkins comes to the Orioles as perhaps the most intriguing position player. From 2006-2008, Atkins averaged 25 home runs and over 100 rbi. However, Atkins hit .226 in 2009, and lost his starting spot for the Colorado Rockies.
Nobody really knows what to expect from Atkins. If he is able to restore his previous power supply, he will be a huge help to the Orioles. Hitting coach Terry Crowly has already expressed his excitement in taking Atkins, and turning him into the player he was before.
Atkins, who played in the 2007 World Series for the Rockies, is a very talented player. His power is undeniable in terms of how hard and far he got bop it, but it must show up in games. Atkins will play first base for the O's, which is a bit different for him because he played third for most of his career. I don't think there is much difference other than being able to pick balls out of the dirt, and finding your way around the bag at first.
Overall:
I am looking forward to seeing how Atkins does. I don't believe he will be able to hit the 25 home runs he averaged from '06-08, but I think 15-20 home runs is highly attainable. His defense will be average to above-average in my opinion, and he will have a very solid average. I can see him hitting around .280 or .290. Atkins became an afterthought after his bad 2009 season, but he is hungry and ready to prove people wrong. The Orioles got him on a one year deal, therefore, they can do what they want with him. Big season? Extend him. Solid season? Trade him for solid prospects.
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