The Phillies have activated center fielder Shane Victorino for their game against the Chicago Cubs Tuesday night.
Analysis: In Shane Victorino’s first game back he will be batting fifth. There is always some concern when a thumb is involved in the injury as in Victorino’s case. He will be wearing a thumb guard for protection on the base paths so obviouly his thumb is no where near fully healthy. If Victorino cannot find his power upon his return he becomes significantly less valuable but he’ll still produce especially in runs and stolen bases. The switch hitter hit eighteen bombs last year and was on pace for nearly as much this year until the injury. His speed has never been in question as he has stolen an average of thirty bags over the last four years and the time on the disabled list has kept his legs fresh. Although the Phils’ lineup has not been as potent in years past it still provides ample opportunity for Shane to contribute in all five categories.
Projection: It is still unclear how the thumb will affect his power numbers but he is still a fantasy stud and will produce. Expect a .285 batting average with 10-15 stolen bases and about seven homers in Victorino’s remaining games.