Top 10 MLB bounceback candidates for 2017

Oct 13, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) hits a sacrifice fly during the third inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during game five of the 2016 NLDS playoff baseball game at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /

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Feb 19, 2017; Bradenton, FL, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates right fielder Andrew McCutchen (22) pose for a photo for photo day at Pirate City. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Andrew McCutchen

Entering his age-30 season, there is no reason to believe the skills that made Andrew McCutchen a top-five player in the league and an MVP at the age of 26 have abandoned him. From 2012 to 2015, McCutchen finished in the top-five of the MVP vote each year, and put up a .313/.404/.523 line with stellar defense. Last season, he slumped all the way down to .256/.336/.430.

McCutchen never fully let on last year that he was injured, but it’s reasonable to believe something was bothering him. After an extended break at the beginning of August, the All-Star outfielder showed signs of life, and got close to the .300/.400/.500 player he is down the stretch. In his final 56 games of the year, McCutchen drove in 36 runs and drew 34 walks.

Having reached the age of 30, it’s reasonable to expect a modest decline from McCutchen. There is plenty of wear and tear on his body thanks to his hard-charging style of play in the field and on the bases. That being said, he will have a much better year in 2017. The Pittsburgh Pirates may have bungled their attempted trade of their superstar and his move from center field to a corner, but he is a professional and will bounce back to prove the doubters wrong this year.

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