Garrett Jones: Step Up

Dear Mr. Jones,




Please start hitting for power. The Pirates have a decent shot at

finishing the year over .500 and could really use your bat. I mean, you

haven't hit a homer since last Thursday and have two RBI in the last six

games (they both came in the same game). Garrett, you had 86 RBI last year

coupled with 21 dingers. You're on pace for somewhere around that this

year, but we need more.



Last Tuesday, the Pirates played the O's and you battled fourth. I don't

need to tell you, you where there. You had a herculean double in the first

and almost had another if not for Adam Jones's amazing catch. You also

played inspired defense at first base. That's the kind of game the Pirates

need you to have at least four days a week to have a chance at winning.

Because, let's face it, Lyle Overbay is not getting the job done anywhere.

Matt Diaz is piss poor. The answer is you, big guy!



Andrew McCutchen and Neil Walker are hitting extremely well, but need

assistance. If you can be a monster, or threat, or consistent, in the

cleanup spot than we could be really solid in the upper half of the order.

With 'Cutch, Tabata, and Harrison setting your table, you could easily

gain 100 RBI!



But if you don't wanna step up, than who can? Trading for another

first-baseman would kill this team's chances of a winning season. We'd

have to give up too much. Paul Maholm for sure, maybe even Hanrahan. We

can't lose those guys. Looking at Triple A Indianapolis, guys like Matt

Hague (.316 avg, 7 HR, 39 RBI) & Alex Presley (.338 avg, 8 HR, 35 RBI)

might get the job done if you cannot, will not. Hell, they'll probably be

up in the majors before you know it and the pressure will really be on.

Better to lockup your spot now and have Diaz sweat don't you think?



Listen, I'm not trying to be mean. Honest. I've been a massive fan of

yours for the last couple o' years and believe you have the chance to be a

predominate heavy hitter. You have the pop in that bat of yours and you

flash the leather at first base. You're the missing link. We just need you

to play better. Now.



Good luck against the Red Sox & their bitching pitching!



Love,


Andrew Brown