Vlad Impales Again

The last two years had been a steep slope for Vladimir Guerrero. A variety of health problems robbed him of his ability to play defense, and his legendary offensive skills seemed to decline fairly quickly. After being a mortal lock for a ~.400 wOBA, Guerrero posted a .373 mark last year, and then began this season without any power. When the Angels put him on the disabled list with a bum knee on July 7th, he was hitting .290/.319/.415 with a whopping four home runs. Considering his status as a DH, he was performing below replacement level. It was hard to believe, but he had become the weak link on the Angels roster.

After about a month recovering on the sidelines, the Angels brought Guerrero back. And Guerrero brought the old version along this time. Since returning, he’s hitting .337/.389/.625. He hit two home runs last night, giving him nine in 26 games. His wOBA over the last month is .429. Last night, he homered on a pitch about six inches off the ground – just classic Vlad.

Now, no one thinks this is his true talent level, of course, but he’s certainly better than he performed prior to going on the DL. ZIPS projects a .309/.365/.489 mark from him over the rest of the season, which is a step down from his heyday but a quality hitter nonetheless. The Angels didn’t need an offensive boost, but they’re getting one anyway. Guerrero is on a mission to show that he’s still got something left, just in time for the playoffs to roll around.

Be afraid, American League pitchers. Vladimir Guerrero has found his power stroke again. That ridiculous offense just got stronger.