5 Players to Have a Big 2012 Season

Looking at various statistics, there are a few players I believe will have a breakthrough or comeback seasons in 2012.

Robinson Cano - Cano is entering his age 29 season. Players are said to be in their prime from the ages of 28-32. 2011 for Robinson Cano was a down year from 2009 and 2010. He plays about 160 games a year, I think 2012 wont be any different. He is a doubles machine getting an average of 45 doubles a year over the past 3 years. His power serge gives him an average of 27 home runs a year over the past 3 years. Also averaging 104 RBI's over the past 3 years. I project Cano to finish with 30 home runs 120 RBI's and a .370 on base percentage.

Prince Fielder - Fielder will be 28 in May of 2012 and he already has established the title of a super slugger. With an average OPS of .955 over his past 3 seasons he is without a doubt a power house. Depending on where he signs that number could skyrocket. If he signs with The Rangers or The Orioles or any team in a hitter friendly park he can put up some big numbers. I project Fielder to finish with 40 home runs 115 RBI's and a .400 on base percentage no matter where he plays.

Albert Pujols - After 2011 the 32 year old Pujols looked to be on the decline. I think that a change of scenery will bring him back to the Pujols of old. Pujols has always been known to get on base and draw walks. With a new offense in front of him he may have an another big season. playing 13 few games than usual Pujols hit 37 home runs in 2011. Playing against American League pitching I say he finishes with 42 home runs, 120 RBI's and a .390 on base percentage.

Tim Lincecum - The Freak will turn 28 in June of 2012 After an improved 2011 season. 2010 was disappointing for Lincecum although The Giants won the world series. A 0.69 point drop in ERA from 2010 to 2011 means Lincecum is going back to being himself. Although his strike outs have been declining, his whip remains the same. I see a spike in his strikeouts to occur in 2012 giving him a 2.65 ERA, 240 strikeouts, 1.1 WHIP and of course 200+ inning pitched.

Yu Darvish - Darvish will be 26 in Mid season of 2012. In Japan he had a 1.72 ERA over 5 years and an average of 217 strikeouts a year. The only thing I am frightened about is that he only pitches about 26 games a season. How will he perform in September and October. Japanese pitchers tend to have their best season in the first year in the MLB. I project Darvish to finish with a 2.78 ERA, 210 strikeouts, 1.0 WHIP and slightly over 200 innings pitched.