Christian Yelich Isn’t Superstar Caliber Anymore And That’s All Good
It’s been a few years since Christian Yelich was arguably the best offensive bat in the National League. The outfielder seemed miles ahead of everyone and was a top candidate for the first triple crown in the NL since Joe Medwick in 1937. This didn’t happen, however, and his downfall was unprecedented.
Yet, Yelich still is a rock in the current Brewers lineup, and provides consistent play at the top of the order. No, he’s not the 40 home run, 100 RBI, and .300 hitter he once was. What Yelich offers nowadays is top-tier defense, and the ability to get on base and score runs.
As of October 1st, Christian is batting .251/.352/.375 with 12 home runs and 96 runs scored. He also has 17 stolen bases in 19 tries. Lots of teams would want this type of production out of their leadoff man and he provides it.
It is somewhat bittersweet to know his past history, however. Between 2018-2019 Yelich averaged 40 home runs, 104 RBI, and an epic slash line of .327/.415/.631. Since 2020, he is slashing .242/.357/.384. Yes, this is most definitely a downfall. No question.
There are the aforementioned positives. This wasn’t a dropoff like Cody Bellinger, who’s absolutely stunk since the COVID season. Yelich’s On-base percentage is considered above the MLB average, which is around .336. In fact, he’s 11th in the National League in that category. His WAR is solid, as well, at 2.5.
He isn’t the superstar of the Brewers, yet a vital cog in a machine that is very close to making the playoffs via the final Wild Card spot. He rounds out that lineup with Hunter Renfroe, Rowdy Tellez, and Willy Adames.
If Yelich can provide that quintessential leadoff role in the postseason, the Brewers may be a tough team to beat down the stretch. He is a team player.
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