Top 10 MLB breakout candidates in 2017

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Nov 2, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Chicago Cubs player Kyle Schwarber (12) hits a single against the Cleveland Indians in the 10th inning in game seven of the 2016 World Series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Kyle Schwarber

It is not hyperbole to call Kyle Schwarber the greatest postseason hitter in the long history of the Chicago Cubs franchise. Over the past two years, Schwarber has slashed .364/.451/.727 with five home runs and 10 RBIs in the postseason. Still, we have barely scratched the surface of what Schwarber could be as a power hitter over a full season.

It’s very easy to forget that Schwarber has played in only 71 regular-season games in his career. A serious knee injury ended his 2016 season after only two games, and his return for the playoffs was not expected. In 69 games as a rookie in 2015, the catcher/outfielder/DH slashed .246/.355/.487, and showed outstanding raw power.

Schwarber is cleared to play the field and run the bases in 2016, and if the World Series is any indication, rehabbing only made him stronger. His position is still up in the air, but the 24-year-old will figure that out on the fly if his bat lives up to expectations. Manager Joe Maddon is kicking around the idea of using Schwarber as his leadoff man, and he would bring rare power to the top of the order.

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Defense may still pose an issue for Schwarber, but he is ready to put up a big season at the plate. He has outstanding patience for a young hitter, and will only benefit from hitting in front of Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo. The sky is the limit for Schwarber in 2017, and it would not come as a surprise to see him hit 40 home runs in his first full season in the big leagues. The legend of the War Bear is just getting started.

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