Everyday on BSR we’re going to take a look at a different Oriole’s numbers from last season and set goals for them this year. Adam “Bubblegum” Jones was one of the Orioles top young talents last season. He was always exciting to watch at the plate after he adjusted to the breaking ball and his defense continued to improve throughout the 2008 season. What should we expect?

Jones

2008 numbers

 G   AB    R    H   2B 3B  HR  RBI  SB CS  BB  SO   BA
132  477   61  129  21  7   9   57  10  3  23 108  .270

2009 projections

 G   AB    R    H   2B 3B  HR  RBI  SB CS  BB  SO   BA
151  566   74  159  26  8  11   64  15  3  30  73  .281

In 2009 I would love to see Adam Jones walk up to the plate and take the first pitch, every time. Early last season Jones would be down 0-2 in the blink of an eye. While patience is definitely something that he can learn I think he should take that step this season. With that patience will come more walks and more of a chance to steal bases. I’d love to see Jones steal at least 5 more bases this season and cut his strike outs down, not only will it help him but it will put the O’s in more winning situations.

Jones is no power hitter, but I expect a couple more doubles and a few more homeruns this season. If he doesn’t get injured I expect that he’ll start the majority of the season, missing just a few games here and there. I wouldn’t count on a .300 season from the 23 year old, but he should take the steps to eventually get there this season.

Apparently, Adam showed up to Spring Training with a lot more muscle than he had last season. I’ve heard is speed is still there, which is very important for his play in centerfield. For Jones to have a good season he needs to be patient in the batters box and get on base a little more, I expect that he’ll do that this season.

Also check out…