Cuddyer has already proven to be worth his new contract
Milwaukee, WI – When the Colorado Rockies signed free agent outfielder Michael Cuddyer last December, many around Denver didn’t really know who he was or even how to pronounce his last name. Those people are quickly learning both, as he is already proving to be the glue of 2012 Rockies. Cuddyer joined Colorado this past offseason for 3 years and $31.5 million. This is a ton of money of course, but in baseball standards, it is the equivalent contract for a guy who is just below superstar status. After 15 games, the Rockies are now 8-7, and have won each of their last 3 series. On Sunday, Cuddyer came to the plate with the game tied 1-1. He proceeded to poke a 2 run double to left-center field, which ultimately was the difference in 4-1 victory. With just 10% of the season now in the books, he is hitting .345 with 11 RBI’s. But it’s more than just the stats with this guy. He already seems to have a very nice calming effect on the team, and always looks very relaxed on the field. He can play multiple positions, and is comfortable hitting anywhere in the lineup. Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez have more natural ability, but Cuddyer already has the look of the guy who will keep this team in contention and come up with clutch hits. Troy at times seems to try to be too perfect, and Carlos is so confident that he thinks he can hit anything within 3 feet of the plate. A full season of Cuddyer mentoring both young stars may yield dividends at some point down the road. For now though, the new guy with the gray hair in right field is molding into the quiet leader for 2012.
Denver Sports by J Simp
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