|
|
|
|
|
|
Rising Stock: Fernando Vina
May 5, 1998
The National League didn't know much about Vina -- or the Brewers -- before the season began. Consider the league educated on both fronts. Vina has been an early-season standout for the Brewers, who have been a revelation since being shifted to the N.L. Central in 1998.
A solid contributor for Milwaukee two years ago when he batted .283 but limited to 79 games last season because of an ankle fracture, Vina went through a demanding rehab and rebounded nicely. In fact, he has turned up his game a few notches.
The Brewers' leadoff hitter, Vina compiled a woeful .312 on-base percentage in 1997. But through the first month of this season, he had emerged as a strong table-setter -- as a .418 on-base mark attests. He also was batting .336 and playing solid defense.
In spring training, manager Phil Garner wanted Vina, who drew 12 walks in 324 at-bats last year, to exhibit more patience. Vina proceeded to coax 13 walks in his first 24 games of the season. Vina, 29, isn't a complete stranger to the N.L, having served as a Mets reserve infielder in 1994 before being dealt to the Brewers. He made a sparkling return to the N.L., collecting four hits against Atlanta in the second game of the season.
"I have a better idea now about leadoff hitting, and I'm excited about the N.L.," says Vina, who attended high school in Sacramento and was a Giants fan. "I've always felt we're better suited for the N.L. . . . the play is a little quicker, a little more aggressive."
The Sporting News
|
| |
