Oneil Cruz of the Pittsburgh Pirates is having an outstanding start to the season, contributing to the team's 9-6 record with five home runs and 13 RBIs. He has hit safely in 11 consecutive games and has six stolen bases, positioning him for a potential 30/30 season.
Oneil Cruz
Former World Series Champion Reveals What's Fueling Pirates Star's Scorching Start originally appeared on SportsNet Pittsburgh. Add SportsNet Pittsburgh as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are off to a phenomenal start this season, including center fielder Oneil Cruz. He's helped propel them to a 9-6 record and the top of the NL Central standings with his red-hot bat, which has already produced five home runs,Ā 13 RBI and a .339/.400/.644 batting line.
Cruz has been consistent, hitting safely inĀ 11 straight games. He's also made an impact on the basesĀ with six steals in seven attempts, putting him on track for his first 30/30 season if he stays healthy.
While Cruz tailed off last year after a similarly fast start, former MLB All-Star and World Series champion Eric Hosmer believes this one is for real based on the adjustments Cruz has made at the plate compared to last year.
On MLB Network on Monday, Hosmer explained how Cruz is using a slightly more open batting stance this year, which is helping him see the ball better, especially against left-handed pitchers.
Cruz has been drastically better against southpaws this year,Ā batting .471 versus lefties with three home runs, so the adjustment appears to be paying off.
Compared to last year, his stance angle has shifted fromĀ 10 degrees open toĀ 14 degrees open, according to Statcast. He's also brought his feet a little closer together, narrowing the distance between his feet fromĀ 40.6 inches to 37 inches.
These may seem like minor moves on the surface, but they're paying massive dividends for Cruz so far by fueling his amazing breakout campaign.
More MLB:Ā Former MLB GM Boldly Predicts Historic Season For Pirates Star
Oneil Cruz has five home runs, 13 RBIs, and a batting line of .339/.400/.644 this season.
Oneil Cruz has hit safely in 11 consecutive games.
Cruz's performance has helped the Pirates achieve a 9-6 record and maintain the top position in the NL Central standings.
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