MLB 2017: One prediction for each team

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Sep 13, 2016; San Francisco, CA, USA; San Diego Padres first baseman Wil Myers (4) smiles at heckling fans while on deck against the San Francisco Giants during the seventh inning at AT&T Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

San Diego Padres: Wil Myers goes 30-30

For the first time since winning the AL Rookie of the Year in 2013, Wil Myers was able to put together a full season without injury. He made the All-Star team and batted .259/.336/.461 with 28 home runs and 28 stolen bases. Myers also made the move to first base permanent, and played mostly positive defense at his new position.

In the second half, Myers slowed down. After batting .286/.351/.522 with 19 home runs in the first half, he tailed off to .223/.316/.381 with only nine homers and a ballooning strikeout rate. He wore down while playing his first full season without injuries, and the Padres’ weak lineup didn’t do him any favors. The lineup will be weak once again in 2017 as the Padres kick off a full-scale rebuild, but Myers should handle the rigors of playing a full 162-game schedule much better.

When Myers came up with the Tampa Bay Rays, he was billed as a complete five-tool player. Moving to first base takes away some of his potential defensive value, but will help keep him healthy. His speed and power were on full display last year. Myers showed good instincts on the bases, and was only thrown out six times while attempting to steal. He should have the green light to go whenever he wants next season as the Padres will have to get creative to plate runs. With that freedom and an ability to hold up for a full year, look for Myers to join the elusive 30-30 club.

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