Brian Walton
December 23, 2004
Entering the Eckstein Era
By Brian Walton
David Eckstein has agreed to terms with the Cardinals on a three year contract, apparently to be their new
shortstop and lead-off hitter. Eckstein, who turns 30 in January, was non-tendered by the Angels earlier
this week after playing with them since 2000. ESPN reports the deal is for $10.25 million guaranteed,
with yearly salaries of $2.25M, $3.25M and $4.5M. Eckstein received a signing bonus of $250,000,
as well.
He is said to be a fan favorite who gets the most out of his ability. That is the kind of player who the
Cardinals fans seem to embrace (see Bo Hart, Stubby Clapp, Joe McEwing, etc.). Eckstein has averaged
23 stolen bases per season, a .278 average, .347 on-base percentage and 49 RBI per season over his four full seasons.
Eckstein is an excellent bunter and is effective at the hit-and-run. He is an experienced lead-off hitter. Let’s hope Eckstein likes Busch, as he hit over 50 points higher at home than on the road over his career.
On the downside, scouts report Eckstein’s arm is weak and his range is limited. However, his fielding percentage is good, so he is accurate for those balls he gets to. As a result, some believe Eckstein is better suited to return to his original position of second base. He has no power, as his career slugging percentage is only .353.
ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick reported earlier Thursday that Eckstein had multi-year offers on the table from at least two teams. Other teams rumored to be interested in him were the White Sox, Tampa Bay, Kansas City and Detroit. His agent was quoted as saying that Eckstein would be willing to play second base, as well as shortstop.
