Lost in the Phillies latest surge is the scuffling play of Shane Victorino. The usually reliable hole hitter is mired in a .231 May. It doesn’t seem as bad as Jimmy Rollins (who hasn’t even hit over .231 for the season yet), so we haven’t paid much attention to the Flyin’ Hawaiian. Still, his slump is starting to rear its head.
There is hope, however, just by looking at Victorino’s past.
Last season Victorino alternated his play by month. April was bad (.239), May was good (.322), June was bad (.235), July was good (.333), August was bad (.262), September was good (.344). Moreover, he improved as the season progressed. More reps meant better results. In April 2009 Victorino hit .286.
The precedent for his alternating play isn’t strong. 2007 showed he worked in longer stretches (he played his best in July and August). 2006 is too spotty since he platooned most of the season. Nevertheless, there’s an indicator Vic’s turnaround is right around the corner.
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