The Next Level: Chris Iannetta

It’s time for Chris Iannetta to take his game to the next level.  The Rockies have confidence in him – that’s why they signed him to a three-year deal worth $8.3 million with a $5 million club option.  They have also given him the edge in the battle for the starting job at catcher.  All Iannetta has to do now is play to his potential.

After a promising 2008 campaign where he hit .264 with 65 RBIs and 18 HRs, Iannetta struggled this past season.  He hit only .228 and had 52 RBIs with 16 HRs.  His power numbers did not diminish but his playing time did.  Iannetta lost his starting job to Yorvit Torrealba in September and saw no action in the postseason series against the Phillies.

Iannetta has the tools and the makeup to become the next big thing for the Rox.  He possesses great power and the ability to knock the ball to every part of the field.  He is at his best when he goes with the pitch and drives the ball to the opposite field.  Iannetta does need to cut down on his strikeouts as he has had 167 K’s over the past two seasons.

However, the Rox believe Iannetta can develop into a .280 hitter with 85 RBIs and 25 home runs.  Last season, Troy Tulowitzki took the next step and became a huge threat in the Rockies lineup.  Colorado is hoping Iannetta takes the same leap because they need his right-handed bat to produce in a lefty dominated lineup.

Colorado also likes Iannetta behind the plate.  He has a strong arm and the ability to throw out runners.  He needs to work on his accuracy but overall, he is solid behind the plate.  Jim Tracy has shown enough faith in Iannetta to call a good game.  His strong relationship with all of the pitchers helps him.

Iannetta is an extremely hard worker and is very intelligent.  The Rockies have a lot of faith in him and they are hoping that he repays them by having a breakout season.  He is one of the key players that the Rockies need to step up and have a solid season.  If he can hit for power and average and have a solid season behind the plate, the Rockies have a great chance at making a run for the NL West title.

Tags: Chris Iannetta, Colorado Rockies, Jim Tracy, Philadelphia Phillies, Troy Tulowitzki, Yorvit Torrealba