The Rundown: Michael Busch Apparently Doesn't Exist, Palencia Is Cubs Closer, How to Watch MLB.TV, Carroll Will Miss WBC -

"Huh, no mention of the man who finished tied for fifth among all first basemen with 3.5 fWAR and second in both home runs (34) and wRC+ (140). Only Also bested Michael Busch in those latter two categories, and he needed 117 more plate appearances to get those four extra dingers. Busch was only one point away in slugging, but his .261 ISO was nine points ahead of Alonso for best among everyone at the position."

"Fine, I do want the smoke. Michael Busch started only 24% of Cubs games vs LHP last year. I think it's a little disingenuous to compare his rate stats to guys who play every day. Even Ben Rice got more looks vs lefties with Goldy as platoon partner and an inflexible roster. Okay, Rice's 104 wRC+ in 119 PAs against lefties was better than Busch's 81 in 95 trips to the plate with southpaws on the mound."

"Can Vaughn continue to replicate the 142 wRC+ he generated over 254 PAs following his trade to Milwaukee? He slugged .493 with a .186 ISO and 47.4% hard-hit rate, the latter of which is right in line with his 46.5% career mark. Vaughn's .328 BABIP with the Brewers, however, was nearly 40 points above"

Michael Busch finished tied for fifth among first basemen with 3.5 fWAR and ranked second in home runs (34) and wRC+ (140). Alonso also bested Busch in home runs and wRC+ but needed 117 more plate appearances to hit four more homers. Busch led first basemen with a .261 ISO. Busch started only 24% of Cubs games versus left-handed pitchers, creating significant platoon splits that complicate comparisons to everyday players. Ben Rice received more plate appearances against lefties and produced a 104 wRC+ in 119 PAs versus Busch's 81 in 95. Pasquantino posted 1.5 fWAR with a 116 wRC+. Andrew Vaughn produced a 142 wRC+ over 254 PAs after a trade, slugged .493 with a .186 ISO and 47.4% hard-hit rate, and recorded a .328 BABIP with the Brewers.

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