Ryan Klesko

Klesko missed almost all of the 2006 season after undergoing left shoulder surgery. He received four regular season at-bats and three in the playoffs and surprisingly did not look rusty. Except for 2004, when he hit nine homers, Klesko hit 17 or more dingers in every season from 1994-2005. He signed with the Giants this offseason and will likely split time between first base and the outfield. While his playing time is uncertain, Klesko could be a good under-the-radar pickup if he finds at-bats.

Klesko, who has seemingly been plagued by injuries his entire career, finished with less than 450 AB for the third year in a row. His numbers have been in a steady decline since his career year in 2001, particularly against lefties. With his range in the outfield diminishing as well, the Padres made the right move in shifting him to first base for 2006. He'll turn 35 this summer and is no longer the guy who hit 30 homers just a few years ago.

Klesko has played through injuries the past two seasons, posting sub-.460 slugging in each, including just nine home runs in 2004. The 33-year-old doesn't have enough range to play in the spacious outfield of Petco Park and would prefer a move back to the infield. His age, receding power, and questionable health suggest a move to another organization might be best for his career, although there isn't a huge market for him, especially with $16.5 million guaranteed for the next two seasons.

Rhino experienced shoulder problems that sapped his power and forced an early exit in 2003. The surgery, known as a modified Mumford procedure, was deemed a success and by all reports, he should be healthy, and at strength, come spring. He'll turn 33 during the season and his stolen base totals are likely a thing of the past, especially since the nickname aptly describes both his on-field demeanor and size. He'll return to the outfield in 2004 and bat fifth in the new and improved lineup. There should be plenty of RBI opportunities for the slugger to cash in on, and a 100-RBI season is probable more than possible.

Although Klesko’s RBI and SB totals dropped a bit in 2002, he’s a good bet to repeat his across-the-board performance. Last year’s .300 average was a bit of a surprise, but the rest of his numbers fall in line with what you can expect from Klesko for the next couple of years. He’s increased his OPS in each of the last five seasons.