Biographical

Jay Bruce OFYankees

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2019 Projections (Preseason PECOTA - seasonal age 32)

PA	AVG	HR	R	RBI	SB	DRC+	WARP
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Birth Date	4-3-1987
Height	6' 3"
Weight	230 lbs

Age	37 years, 7 months, 21 days
Bats	L
Throws	L

: 1.12015
: 1.22016
: 2.52017
: 0.02018
: 1.32019
proj

WARP Summary

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MLB Statistics

YEAR	TEAM	AGE	G	PA	H	2B	3B	HR	BB	SO	HBP	SB	CS	AVG	OBP	SLG	DRC+	DRAA	BRR	FRAA	BWARP
2008	CIN	21	108	452	105	17	1	21	33	110	4	4	6	.254	.314	.453	95	-1.9	-0.3	4.4	1.3
2009	CIN	22	101	387	77	15	2	22	38	75	2	3	3	.223	.303	.470	103	2.5	0.0	13.6	2.3
2010	CIN	23	148	573	143	23	5	25	58	136	1	5	4	.281	.353	.493	118	12.5	-0.7	23.7	4.8
2011	CIN	24	157	664	150	27	2	32	71	158	5	8	7	.256	.341	.474	120	15.5	3.6	-2.4	3.0
2012	CIN	25	155	633	141	35	5	34	62	155	4	9	3	.252	.327	.514	116	12.1	-4.2	8.9	2.9
2013	CIN	26	160	697	164	43	1	30	63	185	2	7	3	.262	.329	.478	116	13.0	1.9	18.2	4.9
2014	CIN	27	137	545	107	21	1	18	44	149	2	12	3	.217	.281	.373	84	-9.4	4.2	1.2	0.5
2015	CIN	28	157	649	131	35	4	26	58	145	2	9	5	.226	.294	.434	95	-1.5	-2.7	3.1	1.1
2016	CIN	29	97	402	98	22	6	25	27	83	2	4	2	.265	.316	.559	108	4.8	0.5	-2.8	1.0
2016	NYN	29	50	187	37	5	0	8	17	43	1	0	0	.219	.294	.391	113	3.2	-2.1	-2.3	0.2
2017	CLE	30	43	169	37	9	2	7	18	37	1	1	0	.248	.331	.477	114	3.5	0.4	-2.7	0.4
2017	NYN	30	103	448	104	20	0	29	39	102	1	0	1	.256	.321	.520	115	9.9	0.1	2.2	2.0
2018	NYN	31	94	361	71	18	1	9	41	75	0	2	3	.223	.310	.370	91	-2.7	-1.8	-0.7	0.0
2019	PHI	32	51	149	32	6	0	12	3	29	0	0	0	.221	.235	.510	97	0.3	0.1	3.6	0.7
2019	SEA	32	47	184	35	11	0	14	16	53	1	1	0	.212	.283	.533	115	4.2	0.6	2.1	1.0
Career			1608	6500	1432	307	30	312	588	1535	28	65	40	.245	.315	.469	107	66.1	-0.2	70.1	26.1

Statistics for All Levels

'opp' stats - Quality of opponents faced - have been moved and are available only as OPP_QUAL in the Statistics reports now.
Minor league stats are currently shown —Click to hide.

YEAR	Team	Lg	LG	G	PA	oppAVG	oppOBP	oppSLG	BABIP	BPF	BRAA	repLVL	POS_ADJ	DRC+	DRC+ SD	FRAA	BRR	DRAA	BWARP
2005	BIL	Rk	PIO	17	81	.275	.361	.413	.318	94	2.1	2.6	-0.8	108	0	3.5	-1.5	1.0	0.4
2006	DYT	A	MDW	117	498	.000	.000	.000	.351			0.0		0	0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0
2007	SAR	A+	FSL	67	298	.263	.334	.388	.400	100	23.1	9.2	-0.3	158	0	3.0	0.9	19.4	3.1
2007	CHT	AA	SOU	16	74	.246	.318	.385	.429	98	8.8	2.2	-0.1	164	0	-0.7	0.5	5.1	0.7
2007	LOU	AAA	INT	50	204	.254	.327	.385	.359	96	15.5	5.9	0	147	0	6.2	-0.3	10.7	2.2
2008	CIN	MLB	NL	108	452	.261	.325	.413	.296	101	-0.2	13.1	-2.7	95	10	4.4	-0.3	-1.9	1.3
2008	LOU	AAA	INT	49	201	.264	.330	.416	.442	91	24.9	5.8	-0.5	155	0	2.6	-1.7	8.0	1.4
2009	CIN	MLB	NL	101	387	.261	.329	.415	.221	97	1	11.1	-4.1	103	11	13.6	0.0	2.5	2.3
2009	LOU	AAA	INT	5	20	.242	.315	.353	.333	110	-1.8	1.1	-0.5	90	0	0.8	0.1	-0.3	0.1
2010	CIN	MLB	NL	148	573	.256	.323	.399	.334	96	22.4	15.8	-5.8	118	11	23.7	-0.7	12.5	4.8
2011	CIN	MLB	NL	157	664	.256	.318	.402	.297	102	13.8	17.9	-6.6	120	9	-2.4	3.6	15.5	3.0
2012	CIN	MLB	NL	155	633	.254	.317	.403	.283	100	20.9	17.3	-6.4	116	8	8.9	-4.2	12.1	2.9
2013	CIN	MLB	NL	160	697	.251	.315	.384	.322	101	20.9	18.3	-6.8	116	9	18.2	1.9	13.0	4.9
2014	CIN	MLB	NL	137	545	.248	.311	.379	.269	100	-9.1	14.1	-5.3	84	9	1.2	4.2	-9.4	0.5
2015	CIN	MLB	NL	157	649	.252	.312	.397	.251	91	3.8	17.5	-6.5	95	9	3.1	-2.7	-1.5	1.1
2016	CIN	MLB	NL	97	402	.252	.320	.409	.275	95	17.6	11.4	-4.2	108	6	-2.8	0.5	4.8	1.0
2016	NYN	MLB	NL	50	187	.258	.326	.422	.246	89	-1.3	5.3	-1.9	113	6	-2.3	-2.1	3.2	0.2
2017	CLE	MLB	AL	43	169	.260	.325	.437	.283	102	3.4	4.9	-1.8	114	9	-2.7	0.4	3.5	0.4
2017	NYN	MLB	NL	103	448	.256	.324	.429	.271	92	17.6	13.1	-5.2	115	9	2.2	0.1	9.9	2.0
2018	NYN	MLB	NL	94	361	.244	.321	.403	.263	89	-1.8	10.1	-4.4	91	8	-0.7	-1.8	-2.7	0.0
2018	SLU	A+	FSL	7	27	.250	.323	.365	.444	100	2	0.8	-0.4	139	0	-0.2	0.0	1.0	0.1
2019	PHI	MLB	NL	51	149	.249	.316	.427	.190	100	-1.8	4.5	-1.1	97	-4	3.6	0.1	0.3	0.7
2019	SEA	MLB	AL	47	184	.253	.322	.443	.210	98	3.2	5.6	-2.6	115	20	2.1	0.6	4.2	1.0
2019	REA	AA	EAS	2	8	.200	.275	.329	.000	91	-2.1	0.2	-0.1	13	0	0.0	0.0	-0.6	-0.1

Statistics For All Levels

Minor league stats are currently shown —Click to hide.

Year	Team	lvl	LG	PA	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	TB	RBI	BB	SO	SB	CS	AVG	OBP	SLG	ISO	SF	SH
2005	BIL	Rk	PIO	81	70	16	18	2	0	4	32	13	11	22	2	2	.257	.358	.457	.200	0	0
2006	DYT	A	MDW	498	444	69	129	42	5	16	229	81	44	106	19	9	.291	.360	.516	.225	0	0
2007	CHT	AA	SOU	74	66	10	22	7	1	4	43	15	8	20	2	1	.333	.405	.652	.318	0	0
2007	SAR	A+	FSL	298	268	49	87	27	5	11	157	49	24	67	4	4	.325	.384	.586	.261	0	0
2007	LOU	AAA	INT	204	187	28	57	12	2	11	106	25	15	48	2	2	.305	.360	.567	.262	0	0
2008	LOU	AAA	INT	201	184	34	67	9	5	10	116	37	12	45	8	1	.364	.403	.630	.266	0	0
2008	CIN	MLB	NL	452	413	63	105	17	1	21	187	52	33	110	4	6	.254	.314	.453	.199	2	0
2009	CIN	MLB	NL	387	345	47	77	15	2	22	162	58	38	75	3	3	.223	.303	.470	.246	1	1
2009	LOU	AAA	INT	20	18	3	5	0	0	0	5	0	2	3	2	0	.278	.350	.278	.000	0	0
2010	CIN	MLB	NL	573	509	80	143	23	5	25	251	70	58	136	5	4	.281	.353	.493	.212	5	0
2011	CIN	MLB	NL	664	585	84	150	27	2	32	277	97	71	158	8	7	.256	.341	.474	.217	2	1
2012	CIN	MLB	NL	633	560	89	141	35	5	34	288	99	62	155	9	3	.252	.327	.514	.263	7	0
2013	CIN	MLB	NL	697	626	89	164	43	1	30	299	109	63	185	7	3	.262	.329	.478	.216	5	0
2014	CIN	MLB	NL	545	493	71	107	21	1	18	184	66	44	149	12	3	.217	.281	.373	.156	5
2015	CIN	MLB	NL	649	580	72	131	35	4	26	252	87	58	145	9	5	.226	.294	.434	.209	9	0
2016	CIN	MLB	NL	402	370	60	98	22	6	25	207	80	27	83	4	2	.265	.316	.559	.295	3	0
2016	NYN	MLB	NL	187	169	14	37	5	0	8	66	19	17	43	0	0	.219	.294	.391	.172	0	0
2017	NYN	MLB	NL	448	406	61	104	20	0	29	211	75	39	102	0	1	.256	.321	.520	.264	2	0
2017	CLE	MLB	AL	169	149	21	37	9	2	7	71	26	18	37	1	0	.248	.331	.477	.228	1	0
2018	NYN	MLB	NL	361	319	31	71	18	1	9	118	37	41	75	2	3	.223	.310	.370	.147	1	0
2018	SLU	A+	FSL	27	25	3	9	1	0	1	13	2	2	6	0	0	.360	.407	.520	.160	0	0
2019	REA	AA	EAS	8	8	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	4	0	0	.000	.000	.000	.000	0	0
2019	PHI	MLB	NL	149	145	16	32	6	0	12	74	31	3	29	0	0	.221	.235	.510	.290	1	0
2019	SEA	MLB	AL	184	165	27	35	11	0	14	88	28	16	53	1	0	.212	.283	.533	.321	2	0

Plate Discipline

YEAR	Pits	Zone%	Swing%	Contact%	Z-Swing%	O-Swing%	Z-Contact%	O-Contact%	SwStr%	CSAA
2008	1658	0.4789	0.5054	0.7076	0.7166	0.3113	0.7961	0.5204	0.2924	-0.0038
2009	1501	0.4637	0.4717	0.7571	0.6839	0.2882	0.8592	0.5474	0.2429	-0.0009
2010	2116	0.4523	0.4650	0.7154	0.6959	0.2744	0.8243	0.4874	0.2846	0.0107
2011	2577	0.4501	0.4781	0.7281	0.6974	0.2985	0.8443	0.5059	0.2719	0.0004
2012	2399	0.4531	0.4735	0.7201	0.7019	0.2843	0.8191	0.5174	0.2799	0.0059
2013	2718	0.4831	0.4919	0.6851	0.7098	0.2883	0.7951	0.4321	0.3149	0.0015
2014	2106	0.4672	0.4672	0.6941	0.6606	0.2977	0.8123	0.4641	0.3059	-0.0026
2015	2498	0.4460	0.4840	0.7477	0.7110	0.3013	0.8573	0.5396	0.2523	0.0001
2016	2271	0.4509	0.5165	0.7391	0.7451	0.3288	0.8139	0.6000	0.2609	0.0000
2017	2424	0.4583	0.4959	0.7246	0.7174	0.3085	0.8306	0.5160	0.2754	0.0000
2018	1415	0.4516	0.4926	0.7116	0.7512	0.2796	0.8188	0.4747	0.2884	0.0000
2019	1175	0.4485	0.5634	0.6918	0.7970	0.3735	0.8238	0.4628	0.3082	0.0000
Career	24858	0.4588	0.4893	0.7190	0.7119	0.3006	0.8245	0.5065	0.2810	0.0012

Injury History — No longer being updated

Last Update: 12/31/2014 23:59 ET

Date On	Date Off	Transaction	Days	Games	Side	Body Part	Injury	Severity	Surgery Date	Reaggravation
2014-08-13	2014-08-14	DTD	1	1	-	General Medical	Illness		-
2014-05-05	2014-05-21	15-DL	16	13	Left	Knee	Surgery	Meniscus	2014-05-05	-
2014-05-04	2014-05-04	DTD	0	0	Left	Knee	Soreness		-	-
2013-02-25	2013-02-28	Camp	3	0	Right	Foot	Contusion	Heel	-	-
2011-07-21	2011-07-23	DTD	2	1	-	General Medical	Illness	Dizziness	-	-
2011-06-26	2011-06-27	DTD	1	1	-	General Medical	Illness		-
2011-05-18	2011-05-19	DTD	1	1	-	General Medical	Illness	Flu	-
2011-04-13	2011-04-15	DTD	2	1	-	Groin	Strain		-
2011-03-02	2011-03-05	Camp	3	0	-	General Medical	Illness		-
2010-08-31	2010-09-13	DTD	13	12	-	Trunk	Strain	Ribs	-
2009-07-12	2009-09-14	15-DL	64	57	Right	Wrist	Fracture		-
2009-04-20	2009-04-21	DTD	1	1	Right	Hand	Soreness		-
2009-04-18	2009-04-19	DTD	1	1	Right	Hand	Soreness		-
2008-09-21	2008-09-23	DTD	2	2	Right	Hand	Contusion	HBP	-
2008-03-02	2008-03-07	Camp	5	0	Left	Thigh	Strain	Quadriceps	-
2007-10-20	2007-10-20	Off	0	0	-	Thigh	Strain	Hamstring	-

Compensation

Year	Team	Salary
2021	NYA	$1,350,000
2020	PHI	$1,375,000
2020	SEA	$12,625,000
2019	SEA	$14,000,000
2018	NYN	$11,000,000
2017	NYN	$13,000,000
2016	CIN	$12,541,667
2015	CIN	$12,041,667
2014	CIN	$10,041,667
2013	CIN	$7,541,667
2012	CIN	$5,041,667
2011	CIN	$2,791,667
2010	CIN	$440,000
2009	CIN	$417,500

Years	Description	Salary
13 yr	Previous	$104,207,502
13 yr	Total	$104,207,502

Service Time	Agent	Contract Status
12 y 125 d	Excel Sports	1 year/$1.35M (2021)

Details

1 year (2021). Signed by NY Yankees as a free agent 2/13/21 (minor-league contract). Salary of $1.35M in majors. Performance bonuses: $50,000 for 400 plate appearances. Contract selected by NY Yankees 3/27/21. Retired 4/18/21.
3 years/$39M (2018-20). Signed by NY Mets as a free agent 1/18. $3M signing bonus ($1.5M in 2019, $1.5M in 2020). 18:$10M, 19:$13M, 20:$13M. Limited no-trade protection allowing Bruce to block deals to 5 clubs annually. No-trade list for 2018: Baltimore, Oakland, Seattle, Tampa Bay, Toronto. No-trade list for 2019: Detroit, Miami, Oakland, Tampa Bay, Toronto. Acquired by Seattle in trade from NY Mets 12/3/18. Acquired by Philadelphia in trade from Seattle 6/2/19 with $21,317,204 remaining on Bruce’s contract (as part of the deal, Mariners to pay Phillies $18,567,204 on 1/15/20, leaving Philadelphia responsible for $2.75M in 2019-20)
6 years/$51M (2011-16), plus 2017 club option. Signed extension with Cincinnati 12/10/10 (avoided arbitration). $0.25M signing bonus. 11:$2.75M, 12:$5M, 13:$7.5M, 14:$10M, 15:$12M, 16:$12.5M, 17:$13M club option, $1M buyout. Limited no-trade clause (may block deals to 8 clubs, with no-trade list as of 11/14 consisting of Arizona, Boston, Cleveland, Miami, Minnesota, NY Yankees, Oakland and Tampa Bay. Award bonuses. Acquired by NY Mets in trade from Cincinnati 8/1/16 with $5,234,973 remaining on contract. NY Mets exercised 2017 option 11/16. Acquired by Cleveland in trade from NY Mets 8/10/17, with Indians responsible for $3,765,027 in remaining 2017 salary.
1 year/$440,000 (2010). Re-signed by Cincinnati 3/10.
1 year/$417,500 (2009). Re-signed by Cincinnati 2/21/09.
1 year (2008). Re-signed 12/5/07 (minor-league contract). Contract purchased by Cincinnati 5/27/08.
Drafted by Cincinnati 2005 (1-12) (West Brook HS, Beaumont, Texas). $1.8M signing bonus.

2019 Preseason Forecast

Last Update: 1/27/2017 12:35 ET

PCT	PA	H	2B	HR	BB	SO	AVG	OBP	SLG	DRC+	FRAA
90^o	53	13	3	2	5	11	.277	.346	.468	122	LF 0,
80^o	35	8	2	1	3	7	.258	.324	.419	115	LF 0,
70^o	22	5	1	1	2	5	.250	.318	.450	110	LF 0,
60^o	11	3	1	0	1	2	.300	.364	.400	106	LF 0,
50^o	1	0	0	0	0	0	.000	.000	.000	102	LF 0,
Weighted Mean	4	1	0	0	0	1	.333	.333	.333	103	LF 0,

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BP Annual Player Comments

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BP Articles

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BP Chats

Date	Question	Answer
2019-06-03 19:00:00 (link to chat)	I was today-years-old when I learned of Brett Baty's existence. Can you tell me more about him? Comps, floor/ceiling, etc. Thanks! (Josh from Long Island)	He definitely has some thunder, and I really like the swing. It's tough to find a comp that encompasses his total game. The offensive comparison (to me) is Jay Bruce. I wonder where he ends up defensively, if you're a Mets fan and seeking offensive upside he certainly has it. (Keanan Lamb)
2018-05-17 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Peter Alonso is going bananas. Will the Mets call him up this year or pretend he has defensive liabilities in order to stall his clock? (Peach from GA)	It's really tough to say with the Mets and their front office. I agree with Jarrett Seidler's statement on the For All You Kids Out There podcast that bringing him up early and letting him sink or swim might give the Mets the most information early ... but I think it'll be July before the Mets are willing to cut bait on Adrian Gonzalez. Look, I too want Alonso to be Rhys Hoskins. (Even though he's a University of Florida guy.) But with so many options (good or no) at or near the majors in Wilmer Flores, Jay Bruce, Michael Conforto, Dominic Smith, and Gonzalez, I absolutely see the Mets slow-playing Alonso until this fall, even though it's probably not best for business. (Bryan Grosnick)
2018-01-11 13:00:00 (link to chat)	First things first: Describe the state of the brand? (dantroy from SLO)	Well, I am going to a Wrestle Kingdom 12 party in upstate NY this weekend. I've already watched the entire show. So it's about where you'd expect. Oh also the Mets signed Jay Bruce while I was out to dinner (and two bottles of wine in) with friends I haven't seen in months. So that's also about right. (Jeffrey Paternostro)
2017-05-04 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Is Jay Bruce going to be the anchor in the Mets line up this season? Or is just just off to a good start? (Wes from Reno)	He literally did this the first half of last year too. He probably isn't this good over the course of the season, and he gives a chunk back in the field, but he should be fine. (Jeffrey Paternostro)
2017-02-06 23:00:00 (link to chat)	It seems that Michael Conforto is likely to spend much of the season at AAA with Jay Bruce being named the Mets starting right fielder for the upcoming season. What type of numbers do you see Conforto putting up in the minors? (Max B from New York)	Unless he's bored/frustrated Conforto will put up big numbers at Las Vegas because he's a good hitter and Las Vegas is Las Vegas. Not sure why his triple-slash there matters tho, unless you're in a Triple-A fantasy league, in which case I want in. (Wilson Karaman)
2016-12-02 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Is Jay Bruce or Granderson for Brad brach a good return ? (Richard from Baltimore)	If I am the Mets I definitely do it for Bruce and don't have to think too hard about it for Granderson. Don't know why the Orioles would make that move. A lot of downside risk in the outfield bats. (Jeffrey Paternostro)
2016-12-02 13:00:00 (link to chat)	What would be an equivalent prospect haul from the Jays or Orioles for Jay Bruce (compared to what the Mets gave up for him)? Think the mMets can do better than that? (Chad from NY)	Pompey has been sort of linked to a deal insofar as the Jays have been shopping him. That is actually a really good Herrera fit right down to the not-a-prospect but still sort of a prospect thing. I guess the arm flyer would be like Jose Espada or something. That seems heavy to me, but it seems the industry values Bruce more than I do. O's are harder to find a fit, because you end up with like Schoop or Mountcastle, which doesn't seem like a fit and it seems like too much. Maybe like Reyes/Liranzo? That still feels heavy. It's Jay Bruce. (Jeffrey Paternostro)
2016-12-22 13:00:00 (link to chat)	If you're the Orioles, would you rather sign Trumbo for 3 years/$51 million or trade Mychal Givens for Jay Bruce? (mattstupp from NYC)	This is ... not a great pair of options. I'd rather trade Givens for Bruce, because I think signing Trumbo to that deal is too much, even with inflation stuff. The bullpen's awful good without Givens. If the team has $50 million to spend, they might be better served going after Chris Carter, and being very happy about the leftover cash. (Also, I love this trade for the Mets, which makes me imagine that it's not so good for the O's.) (Bryan Grosnick)
2016-12-22 13:00:00 (link to chat)	What do you think will end up happening with the Mets crowded OF situation? Orioles cave and trade Brach for Bruce? Mets cave and trade Granderson for Brach? Something else? (Farrah from Jersey)	Either of these deals would actually probably be pretty good for the Mets, in my opinion. (And I'm very pro-Granderson because he's a great guy.) But yeah, I'll take the field over either of those options. My best guess is that the Mets end up dealing Jay Bruce in a move that looks a lot like the Clay-Buchholz-for-a-nothing-prospect trade. Those two situations are pretty similar in my eyes. (Bryan Grosnick)
2016-11-22 20:00:00 (link to chat)	What is the cost for Jay Bruce? An org's 10-15 prospect? More? (Tina from 414)	One has to be careful answering these because for the Angels a 10-15 prospect is literally a waiver claim and for the Yankees it's a fringe 101 candidate. To me Bruce has minimal trade value, but it's clear the market values him much more than I do. I think he'd return something like a back of the top ten guy in a good but not incredible system. Given the previous two sentences I also think the Mets should really trade him. (Jarrett Seidler)
2016-11-22 20:00:00 (link to chat)	Hey Jarrett--- big fan of the podcast. Can you rank Curtis Granderson, Jay Bruce and Juan Lagares in terms of trade value? Also, can you give me an idea of what each could fetch in a trade, in Mets prospect terms (so I can better understand)? For example, maybe Jay Bruce gets you a Merandy Gonzalez type prospect, idk. (Ruby from NYC)	Granderson: maybe on the high end someone like Gavin Cecchini? I definitely think a Molina or Merandy kind of arm would be out there Bruce: pretty much the same Lagares: someone like Harol Gonzalez, and a lot of salary relief (Jarrett Seidler)
2016-09-07 19:00:00 (link to chat)	Better chance of HOF- Jay Bruce or Dilson Herrera? (Weston from Orange Plains)	Bruce and it's not even close. Dude has 237 homers at age 29, and while I don't love what he is right now -- he might even just be done -- there's a realistic path to 500 homers there. Dilson Herrera does not have that realistic a path to career milestones. (Jarrett Seidler)
2016-08-30 13:00:00 (link to chat)	I have a competitive squad in a 14 team mixed dynasty. Wondering which order you would keep the follow OF: Ian Desmond, Dexter Fowler, Jay Bruce, Justin Upton. They all have weird and confusing career arcs. (Rob from Alaska)	You said it: all those guys are on weird tangential career paths. I'd rank them in the order you currently have them in. I was debating between Fowler and Bruce for longer than I'd like to admit, but assuming this is a category format, Fowler's SBs push him over the edge. I really wish Justin Upton would have a resurgent year. I miss that guy being awesome. (Will Haines)
2016-08-17 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Enjoyed the trade deadline coverage, Grossy. How was it from your end? (R.J. from Florida)	It was kind of challenging! I was just getting back from overseas, so I was jetlagged and exhausted until well into August. The BP team is phenomenal, though ... particularly everyone who helped out on the fly and our remarkable prospect team. I still can't quite wrap my head around Jay Bruce in a Mets jersey or Jon Lucroy in Rangers gear, but here we are! (Bryan Grosnick)
2016-08-01 16:00:00 (link to chat)	Any thoughts how the Met's Outfield shakes out. No center fielder and it seems like Conforto mainly to the bench. Doesn't make a lot of sense, does it? (Rick from Chicago)	Likely going to be Curtis Granderson, Jay Bruce, and Yoenis Cespedes with Granderson in center. I suspect Michael Conforto cycles in to give all three rest from time to time. It doesn't make a lot of sense, but the Mets haven't cared about defensive metrics - at least not the public ones that we all see - for the last two years. (Mike Gianella)
2016-03-02 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Given the Almonte suspension and the possibility of 2 months of a starting outfield of Rajai Davis, Lonnie Chisenhall and Collin Cowgill, what odds do you place on the Indians a) signing Ausitn Jackson or b) trading for Jay Bruce or c) sticking with the status quo? Which would you do if you were in their shoes? (Truganini from CO)	It's all about the price. I would think adding a Jackson as depth is more prudent than adding Bruce, which would come at a steeper cost to put it mildly. (Harry Pavlidis)
2016-03-09 19:00:00 (link to chat)	What can you tell me about Cincy's Scott Schebler? Will he be starting in Cincy's outfield and what are your predictions for him if he does start? (The Bullet Club from Bronx, NY)	Power/speed combo, but numbers at AAA that don't impress me. He will at least get a chance to start out with the job, but Adam Duvall is there as well and ultimately Jesse Winker will supplant them both (barring a sudden Jay Bruce trade). Schelber will be fine and probably go 10/10 with a .260 BA but there's not much upside beyond that. (Mike Gianella)
2016-03-03 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Which Jays prospects would be an appropriate bounty in exchange for Jay Bruce? (Buck from Ohio)	I wouldn't give up very much; even in a system as weak as the Blue Jays I wouldn't give up a prospect in the top 10. Maybe someone like Reggie Pruitt? Brady Dragmire? Something like that. (Christopher Crawford)
2016-03-03 13:00:00 (link to chat)	In the Jay Bruce / Michael Saunders trade, who on earth was going from the Angels' wasteland of a system to the Reds? Actually, better question, if you were the Reds who would you want back from the Angels for Bruce? (Truganini from CO)	I have no idea, but I can guarantee it wasn't much more than a mediocre prospect, because, well, you know why. (Christopher Crawford)
2016-01-14 20:00:00 (link to chat)	DO you see Carlos Gomez or Jay Bruce coming back strong in 2016? Both have the talent but struggle with minor injuries and inconsistencies. (Brandon from Oklahoma)	Both should bounce back somewhat, Gomez's bounce back is almost entirely predicated on health, and I do wonder if he'll play a full season. Bruce should be OK but he hasn't been quite the same the last two years and I suspect he may have found a new level. (Mike Gianella)
2015-07-01 13:00:00 (link to chat)	8-team NL-only standard 5x5 keeper league with 8 keepers per team & $260 salary cap. I had an offer of his Jay Bruce ($28 next year) and Michael Wacha ($17 next year) for my Nolan Arenado ($15 next year). I'm on the fringe of contending, he's in last place. Fair deal? (Kingpin from Grinnell, IA)	I would really be loathe to give up Arenado, especially at that price and if you're only on the margins of contention presently. It's probably fair value, but it's a bunch of salary coming in and an elite player going out, so unless you feel like this deal's going to address enough of your team's deficiencies to put you squarely into the mix for a title this year I'd probably pass. (Wilson Karaman)
2015-06-30 19:00:00 (link to chat)	Michael Cuddyer's first three months with the Mets have been terrible- he's arguably the biggest problem with the team. His paltry hitting has come with a .307 BABIP, no less. At age 36, are witnessing the beginning of a steep decline for him? If you were the Mets, would you prioritize getting a bat like Jay Bruce over a shortstop? (mattstupp from NYC)	The decline already started prior to this year but was masked somewhat by Coors. The Mets probably should get any kind of hitter they can get. The problem with getting Bruce over an infield is that in addition to a bat they need some stability on offense. Something to keep in mind is that the Mets schedule in July is brutal. There are no gimmies on the schedule, and it's possible they put up a 9-16 month in July. If they do that, forget about buying. They might be selling yet again. (Mike Gianella)
2015-05-26 19:00:00 (link to chat)	Hey mike, 8 team NL only league, 5x5 roto. I'm in last place and struggling with injuries. I have an offer where I would get Jhonny Peralta and Jay Bruce for pence. My shortstops are either Owings or Addison Russell, neither has been very good. Is it worth giving up Pence for those 2 guys? Bruce has been pretty bad too. Thanks (ganz1080 from CT)	I'd do that. I like Pence, but I think you're getting a lot of value back. Bruce will hit enough to make it worth it in that format. (Mike Gianella)
2015-04-16 17:00:00 (link to chat)	â€¦â€¦ or he's the right handed Jay Bruce. (ssauve25 from San Francisco)	Are we still talking about Bryant? (Mike Gianella)
2014-08-25 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Do you think Jay Bruce reaches 30 homers again? (Kevin from NJ)	If he's healthy, I don't see why he can't. He's only 27 years old and this is only one down year. Maybe it's the start of something, but at the moment I'm just going to write it off as a down year. (Mike Gianella)
2014-06-26 14:00:00 (link to chat)	Welcome! What are your thoughts on Jay Bruce going forward? Are his decreasing FB% and increasing GB% a blip on the radar or time to run away? (Tywin Lannister from The privy)	He's hitting .284/.341/.556 with a .896 OPS in the month of June. If he's available in your league, go get him before people start to notice. (J.P. Breen)
2014-05-29 19:30:00 (link to chat)	Crazy to keep Bryant over Baez? (utdavidson from Austin)	Crazy is strong ... let's just go with "wrong." I think Bryant is Jay Bruce. Baez could be legendary. (Ben Carsley)
2014-05-29 19:30:00 (link to chat)	Alright last time I asked this question I got Price Fielder, but maybe I'll have better luck this time- your favorite buy-low candidates at this point? Thanks (DanDaMan from Sea Cliff)	Sorry about that :( - let's go with Jay Bruce this time (Ben Carsley)
2014-02-26 19:00:00 (link to chat)	I love Justin Upton, he has all the raw talent in the world. But I am worried about his plate discipline...He doesn't make a ton of contact. He whiffs a lot. Are we looking a Jay Bruce with a tiny bit of speed? (Dylan from Rhode Island.)	You know, I still think an MVP year is still there even considering the godawful Whiff/Swing% numbers on Fastballs he posted last year. It's likely that he's a low average power guy who can steal 15 bases but I still believe, Dylan. I still believe. (Mauricio Rubio)
2013-08-08 17:30:00 (link to chat)	Would Josh Donaldson for Ryan Braun in a H2H points dynasty league be fair value? If not, what kind of value could Donaldson garner in this kind of format? (Larry from Arizona)	Hi Larry: Unless Braun's owner is really skeptical, that seems like a reach. Donaldson has been terrific, but I'm not sure I buy into a consistent 30 HR, 100 RBI guy with a good batting average. Think second tier OF with Donaldson (assuming you're aiming for an OF). Nelson Cruz and Jay Bruce are better targets. Even if their owners still think you're aiming high, you have a shot. Good luck! (Mike Gianella)
2013-07-29 11:00:00 (link to chat)	Hunter Renfroe has looked pretty good thus far. Does he have a Jay Bruce ceiling? (padremurph from San Diego)	Renfroe has tools, but Jay Bruce is a monster. I'm not sure many prospects in the minors have a Jay Bruce ceiling. (Zach Mortimer)
2013-05-22 18:00:00 (link to chat)	How much longer do you think Matt Kemp will be recovering from this shoulder surgery? Will his power be back at all this season, or is he worth trading for someone like Jay Bruce? (Kyle from Compton)	another 6 weeks or so. That front shoulder for hitters is huge and they need it to get their power. BJ Upton suffered from it in 2009, Luke Scott did last year, and Bagwell years before that. I'd deal him for Bruce and let someone else suffer through the frustration. (Jason Collette)
2013-05-07 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Paul,would you rate the following according to these stats.Jay Bruce, V.Wells,T.Hunter,J.Willingham,B.Gardner .I have Dl coming active and need to drop some. the stats are-HR,RBI,AVE,SB,RUNS,XBH.Thanks (Chesty from New Bern NC)	Wells and Gardner are the first cuts from that group even with Bruce struggling. (Paul Sporer)
2013-05-07 13:00:00 (link to chat)	What to do with Jay Bruce now ? Been holding on to him for some time and he has to be the most frustrating player to own.Is it time to trade him while he has good market value ? (Spirou from Montreal)	If you have him in roto, set it & forget it. Too early to move on. This guy is one of those hit 4-5 HRs in a week types. (Paul Sporer)
2013-04-16 20:00:00 (link to chat)	Tie ballgame last night in the 7th between CIN/PHI. Runners on 2nd and 3rd with nobody out, and Jay Bruce up. Do you walk him and pitch to Todd Frazier with the force outs, or take your chances with Bruce? Win Expectancy gives a 3% improvement to pitching to the batter, which to me would be negated by the downgrade in hitter from Bruce to Frazier. (swarmee from Niceville, FL)	With one out, probably. Not with none. (Bret Sayre)
2013-04-18 14:00:00 (link to chat)	Where is Jay Bruce's power?!?!?! (jordan from osu)	Hey, jordan. I wouldn't worry about Bruce yet, at least from a power perspective. He's hitting more liners and grounders than deep flies, and if those rates stabilize at their career norms, the home runs will come. He's a fantasy buy-low candidate for me if the power outage continues for another week or two and redraft owners get impatient. (Daniel Rathman)
2013-03-15 13:00:00 (link to chat)	In a 5X5 Roto Auction Keeper League, would you keep Jay Bruce at $32 and or Jon Niese at $9. (Some HUGE Mets fans in the league who'd pay 15-17 for Niese.) (Jeff from Manahawkin, NJ)	Then couldn't you trade Niese to someone who thinks he's a bargain? That might be best value for what you get in return. Exploit the market! (Harry Pavlidis)
2012-07-30 13:00:00 (link to chat)	What do you think of Jay Bruce's prospects the rest of 2012? How would you rank him among RF for ROS and in a keeper league? (SpittinTeeth from Dentist's Office)	I like Bruce the rest of the year, and absolutely love him in keeper leagues. He'd rank near the top of the RF heap in keeper/dynasty formats. His walk rate is in line with his recent seasons, his strikeout rate is down a tiny bit, and his ISO is up. Most owners are likely frustrated with his .242 batting average, but be patient. His .261 BABIP is 26 points lower than his .287 mark for his career, in spite of a career best line drive rate, 21.3 percent, and a career low pop-up rate, 5.0 percent. Buy Bruce now! (Josh Shepardson)
2012-07-20 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Geoff, Should Reds fans just accept Jay Bruce for who he is? Or, will he at some point acquire plate discipline and/or quit trying to pull everything? Also, why does the Reds manager continue to wear those silly wristbands? (10graham43 from Louisville, KY)	This is a horrible comp, but Bruce is sort of taking the Eric Chavez path. Early success creates expectations. When he turns out to be very good instead of great, people are disappointed. Most players aren't perennial MVP candidates. Bruce has been named to two All-Star teams and he's 25 years old. I'd suggest being happy with what he is now and being pleasantly surprised if he develops further. It could happen, but removing the expectation makes life easier for everyone. As for the wristbands, that's just Dusty being Dusty. (Geoff Young)
2012-05-07 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Jay Bruce: Another hot month (see May 2011) or is the long-awaiting breakout finally here? (RMR from Chicago)	Bruce isn't going to hit .300/.339/.630 all season. I could see him out-producing last season's line (.256/.341/.474), but I think it's unrealistic to expect any player to hold a 950-plus OPS all season when he hasn't shown that ability before. (R.J. Anderson)
2012-01-24 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Has Jay Bruce hit a wall in his development, or do you see a further breakout from him? (PJ from Bronx)	I like Jay Bruce, and I do think that a further breakout for him is in the cards. It's hard to bank on a guy at the level of Bruce to take one more step forward, and I wouldn't pay for it, but it's definitely within the realm of possibility and something I would keep in mind when contemplating him on draft day. (Derek Carty)
2011-04-25 13:00:00 (link to chat)	I have Jay Bruce and Nelson Cruz, both just kind of disappointing so far. How much should i readjust what i'm expecting from them? (Tony from Albuquerque)	We're not even out of April yet. Without injury, reassessing much of anything is premature, especially for players you expect to be great. My go-to example for this now is David Ortiz in 2010. He had a 524 OPS in April of 2010, and finished at .270/.370/.529 with an 899 OPS. (Marc Normandin)
2011-04-13 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Thoughts on Jay Bruce's early struggles? Seems he forgot how to lay off that low/away breaking ball. Second half of last year he wanted nothing to do with it. Is it just a matter of getting into a rhythm? (J from NY)	I think he will be fine, but his balance looks off and pitch recognition skills aren't sharp at the present. I picked him to win the NL MVP, so he needs to starting chopping. (Jason Parks)
2011-04-12 13:00:00 (link to chat)	What's going on with Jay Bruce? When is he going to bounce into the MVP form that all the BP'ers have expected from him? (SnakeDoctor18 from New York, NY)	I wasn't one of the BPers who predicted an MVP season, but things will get much better for Bruce, and soon. (Ben Lindbergh)
2011-03-08 14:00:00 (link to chat)	you (reza from reza)	No, you! Re. Jay Bruce, just consider these two facts... he's still only 23 years old, and he ranked 3rd in MLB last year in homers by lefty hitters off lefty pitchers. I think he's going to be a superstar (think Adam Dunn with fewer walks but a little more AVG and a few SB's, and decent defense), and maybe even this year. (Cory Schwartz)
2011-02-22 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Jay Bruce - does the breakout happen this year? (Matthew from OH)	Well, it sort of happened last season, but yes....it gets even better in 2011. (Jason Parks)
2011-01-18 13:00:00 (link to chat)	What do you expect from Jay Bruce this year? Break out candidate? (peachycream from Chicago)	This is the year! Buy on Bruce! He hit .338/.418/.699 in the last two months, and while I certainly don't expect that to continue, I do think he'll finally be a serious fantasy player. (Marc Normandin)
2011-01-18 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Can Jay Bruce be this year's Carlos Gonzalez? You know, that mid round OF who vaults to the elite the next year. If things bounce right, I could see Bruce hitting 40 bombs this year.. but 30+ for sure. (Nick from Denver)	Without the Coors benefit of course, but yeah, he should outperform his draft position in loads of leagues. (Marc Normandin)
2011-01-18 13:00:00 (link to chat)	I've got an outfield heavy team in an 11 team, standard 5x5 league with 5 keepers (boring, I know). I'm currently thinking David Wright, Matt Kemp, Justin Upton, Justin Verlander and Matt Latos. But I also have Jay Bruce, Colby Rasmus and Cole Hamels as options. I've recently had the skill of kicking ass drafting starting pitching in the 9th-15th rounds, but who knows if that continues... Am I keeping the worst OF in Upton just because of hype? Which five of those eight do you keep? (Adam from Philly)	I would see what you can get in a trade for Upton--I think he turns into something great, but you might find someone who buys him on the hype of his turning into even more. I would keep Bruce over Kemp though. Verlander/Latos is the right call for the SP, thanks to their respective parks. (Marc Normandin)
2011-01-03 14:00:00 (link to chat)	Do you get the feeling that Jay Bruce could be on the verge of a monster season? (Tom from OH)	I do. (Kevin Goldstein)
2010-11-09 14:00:00 (link to chat)	Jay Bruce is going to be as good in 2011 as everyone projected he would be three years ago, isn't he? (MEDAFAP from CA)	Like the chances. What's with all the Reds questions? (Kevin Goldstein)
2010-10-14 13:00:00 (link to chat)	The Sky is Blue; The Mets are a mess; Jay Bruce is a ____; (JD Sussman from Torts Class)	beast. Jay Bruce is a beast. (Marc Normandin)
2010-09-29 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Next 5 years, Jay Bruce or Joey Votto? (Rick from Chicago)	Votto. He does have a few years on Bruce, so 5 years from now Votto will have reached the wrong side of 30, while Bruce will still be squarely in his prime, but I'm going to go with the guy who's already a presumptive MVP. For the 5 years after that, I might change my answer. (Ben Lindbergh)
2010-08-26 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Going forward in a standard league w/ OBP, SLG and OPS - Jay Bruce, Dexter Fowler, Coco Crisp or JD Drew? (Jeff from South Jersey)	I like Fowler the least of all of those guys right now. Drew is the safe pick, Bruce the upside pick, and Crisp is hitting as well as he ever did before he busted his finger open in his first year with Boston (and has 22 steals!) to boot. So it depends on what you prefer/need more of--safety, upside, or if you want to get some steals out of it while you're at it. (Marc Normandin)
2010-08-26 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Woulde you rather play Miggy Montero or Jay Bruce in an OBP league in a UTIL sloit? Would you drop or bench the other player? (I could take Lyons now). Thanks. (Will from Mactaquac)	Montero will probably have the better OBP, but he's going to have fewer PA than Bruce, so you may lose out in some counting categories. I still have a lot of faith in Bruce going forward, and I'm not sure how I feel about a catcher in a utility slot unless he's a beast at the plate. Is it keeper or single year? (Marc Normandin)
2010-08-09 13:00:00 (link to chat)	At what point in a player's career does it become detrimental to send a guy down to AAA for a refresher course (I'm thinking about Jay Bruce here)? (Scott from DC)	Well, I strongly advocated it for Beckham this summer, if that gives you an idea. Bruce, IMO, hasn't played poorly enough to warrant that treatment, not to mention the Reds don't have any better plan. I don't think he's so far along where you couldn't try it, just that these circumstances don't fit. Didn't the Braves send Francaeiour down last year? (Joe Sheehan)
2010-07-09 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Is Andy Marte destined to haunt BP forever? Your #1 overall prospect ranking led me to keep Marte on my keeper team for three years before finally cutting ties. Now I'm gun-shy about Jay Bruce, whom I also hold. (Daniel from Ether)	To be fair, I think the entire world thought Andy Marte was the Next Big Thing. Everyone except the Braves and Red Sox were collectively wrong about Marte. (Marc Normandin)
2010-05-11 16:30:00 (link to chat)	Go Phils. I have an abundance of pitchers and a need for outfielders in a 16 team mixed league. Should I try to trade Wade Davis for Jay Bruce or Jason Kubel? These teams just can't put up a good phight against the Phils these days. (choms57 from philadelphia)	Go Phils. It's kind of hard for me to evaluate a fantasy trade because I don't have a sense of how valuable these guys are in a given league. I do think Wade Davis is playing over his head. If he doesn't stop issuing walks, he's going to start allowing a lot more runs when his share of hits starting falling in. Jay Bruce finally has hit BABIP up to normal, but he's probably got a little more power than this. I think his numbers are starting to look normal again, though. Kubel like I said earlier just isn't hitting the ball as hard as he should, so he might need a little time to work out kinks. (Matt Swartz)
2010-04-28 13:00:00 (link to chat)	may be a better question for fantasy guys/ i was just offered Ryan Howard for Prince Fielder. Shoul.d I do it? (keentower from MA)	I wouldn't, but then again, I predicted Jay Bruce to win this year's NL MVP, so I might not be the right person to ask. (David Laurila)
2010-03-26 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Jay, who are your pet players this year? Guys you expect to put themselves on the map or take an underrated step forward? (slim from Fairfield Cty)	You know, for some reason the team I always come back to for questions like this is the Reds. Not that I EXPECT their young guys to take a step forward so much as that I'm interested to see if they can. To see if pitchers like Johnny Cueto, Mike Leake or Aroldis Chapman can succeed in that ballpark, under Dusty. To see if Jay Bruce finally lives up to the hype, if Chris Dickerson can hold down a regular corner spot. I don't actually root for the Reds, but I've been intrigued by their collection of talent for years. (Jay Jaffe)
2010-02-17 16:00:00 (link to chat)	Tommy, Who are some players that you hope to add to all your fantasy teams this year (mid to late round)? Thanks, Dan (dandaman from Sea Cliff)	I got a couple questions to this effect. I think Cody Ross remains underrated, especially if you play in a league with individual outfield positions. I think Rafael Soriano is a great closer for where he is going in drafts. I'm big on a bounce back from Jay Bruce as well. (Tommy Bennett)
2010-02-05 13:00:00 (link to chat)	What young player do you think takes the biggest step forward this year for fantasy purposes...Rasmus, Bruce, McCuthchen, or A.Jones? (kgoodson3 from New Orleans)	Jay Bruce. I expected him to struggle in the first half, and he did. I'm excited to see what he does now that he's healthy and has some more experience against MLB pitching behind him. I'm listening to 3 Inches of Blood. What does everyone else have on? (Marc Normandin)
2010-02-05 13:00:00 (link to chat)	I'm in a NL only, auction, keeper league. We can keep up 15 players off of our 25 man roster. budgets size is $285. I have both Jay Bruce ($15) and Jonathan Sanchez ($10) coming into the final year of their contracts. Neither haas been great (or average) to this point, but I believe their best days are ahead. My question is: do I keep them at their present price for this year only or do I put them back and try to get them back (at probably similar salary) in order to have them for 2 additional years. Thanks for commenting and chatting. (jaysbluejays from pdx)	I would think it might be tough to guarantee you'll get Bruce back--you may end up starting a little bidding war with someone else who likes him and pay about the same anyways. Is that worth the risk of losing him? Sanchez you may be able to swing with that strategy though. (Marc Normandin)
2010-02-09 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Jay, can you give us your prediction for Jay Bruce this year? Obviously his struggles last year were in part due to horrendously bad luck, but he also had some approach issues which he seemed to correct when he came back at the end of the year. Is .270/.360/.540 unrealistic? (Rick from Chicago)	I'd be more comfortable projecting him for closer to a .340 OBP and about a .520 SLG, but the raw power is there, and the ballpark will help. (Jay Jaffe)
2010-02-02 13:00:00 (link to chat)	What are your thoughts on the 2010 Reds? Any chance they contend in 2010? (Brandon from Charleston, WV)	No. I think PECOTA is dead wrong on that team. The division isn't great, so it could be like a couple years ago where they "stay in it" but they'll need Stubbs to establish himself, for Jay Bruce to be a real star rather than pretty good, and Joey Votto to take the next step. They're counting on Scott Rolen and a Dusty Baker pitching staff to stay healthy so ... (Will Carroll)
2009-12-09 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Thanks for the chat, Joe. What do you foresee in 2010 for Jay Bruce? (Reds99 from California)	I'm willing to write off his '09 as an injury year, but I am concerned that he's going to be less and average and OBP guy and more a low-BA power bat with good defense. Tom Brunansky, maybe? (Joe Sheehan)
2009-10-28 14:00:00 (link to chat)	When can you declare a former top prospect a bust? Are Delmon Young, Alex Gordon, and Jay Bruce busts? (Ron from Vancouver)	I think a player's first year of arbitration eligibility is a good point of reckoning, because it's at that point where they start to cost real money instead of something closer to the major league minimum. Not that it's the final word, but it's certainly when a team has to start considering how much future investment a player is worth. By that token, I'd call Young a bust. Gordon's at three years of service, too, but he gets a pass because of injury. Bruce has at least another year before that point is reached, because he's probably going to be short of where the Super Two line is in 2010. (Jay Jaffe)
2009-08-11 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Did Jay Bruce break a bone in his wrist or arm? Is there a comp for this one? Will it effect his prodigious pull power? (mwball75 from Cincinnati, OH)	Looks like arm. I'm having to read tea leaves on this one, but seems as if it's along the lines of Evan Longoria last year. (Will Carroll)
2009-07-21 13:00:00 (link to chat)	You think the Cubs can win the NL Central? Thoughts on Randy Wells? (Salmon from Chitown)	Can? Certainly. Will they? Hmmm.....I'm not sure who to peg as the likely winner. I know that I irked a lot of Cardinals fans at the beginning of the season when I picked them to finish near the bottom of the division. Clearly, they are a better team than I envisioned, and I readily admit to missing something. The Brewers MIGHT have enough, and presumably are exploring Halladay options. Without the Jay Bruce injury, I think the Reds would have contended late into September. So, my final answer....the Cubs probably fall short. (David Laurila)
2009-05-21 14:00:00 (link to chat)	Who will be the best in 5 years out of these guys: Justin Upton, Jay Bruce, Evan Longoria, Ryan Braun, Travis Snider? (Mike from Utica,NY)	Upton, with Longoria close behind. Upton should be in the home-run contest; he hits ridiculously impressive shots. (Joe Sheehan)
2009-04-13 14:00:00 (link to chat)	Should I be worried about Jay Bruce? (stewbies from Rochester)	He certainly didn't have a great year last year except for those first couple weeks, but come onhe's 22 years old. He needs time to grow and to adjust before anyone should start worrying about him. (Jay Jaffe)
2009-04-16 13:00:00 (link to chat)	The Jay Bruce "Make a Splash, Then Stay All Wet" Award (Scott from Detroit)	"Make A Splash, Oh No I Can't Swim" award also works. Don't worry, we can take his floaties off someday. (Marc Normandin)
2009-02-24 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Since I can only keep one in my (points based) fantasy league, who is more likely to be a truly SPECIAL player this year: Liriano or Jay Bruce? I'm sure they'll both be good, but who am I least likely to regret not keeping around? (Jed from San Francisco)	Liriano. He's closer to his potential upside, and you can replace offensive stats more easily than pitching ones. Keep him. (Joe Sheehan)
2009-02-24 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Jay Bruce over/under 30 homers in 2009? (Brandon from Charleston)	I would have no confidence in either side of that bet. Gun at my head, I'll say under, as he picks up some BA and doubles. (Joe Sheehan)
2009-02-24 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Having answered the Kershaw/Joba Q, same thing for outfielders: who has the better year, Jay Bruce or Colby Rasmus? Or is Raz going to continue to be behind the TLR eight-ball and get stuck in the minors again? (Bill from New Mexico)	Bruce just because he's more certain to play. The Cardinals aren't doing the best job of aligning their talent at the moment, and I still think they should solve that by trading Ryan Ludwick for a middle-infield solution. Maybe that deal isn't available, but I'd try like hell to make it happen. (Joe Sheehan)
2009-02-11 14:00:00 (link to chat)	If the Reds bring in a new left fielder, how does Dickerson rate in CF? Could a Dickerson/Taveras platoon work? (birkem3 from Dayton, OH)	I'm not sold on either guy. If I were Walt Jocketty, and I'm not, I would play Jay Bruce in center and find two corner guys who can hit. There were a lot of those guys out there this winter and I think the Reds whiffed on a chance to become the one legitimate challenger to the Cubs in the NL Central. (John Perrotto)
2009-02-06 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Which absurdly young stud has the better '09: Jay Bruce, Justin Upton? (Andrew from Ohio)	I still cannot see Bruce's name without getting ELO's "Don't Bring Me Down" stuck in my head. So thanks, Andrew. Thanks a lot. My instinct is Upton based on his strong September, though Bruce was also quite good that month. If I say I think they'll both be good, is that a cop-out? If I had long-term chips, I'd bet Upton. (Steven Goldman)
2009-01-29 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Jay Bruce or Joey Votto? Who will have the most fantasy production for the 2009 season? (bianchiveloce from Anderson, SC)	Ooh, good question. You've got the high-upside potential star who struggled and produced at random times in Bruce, and you've got Votto, who is definitely the safe pick for production out of the two. I think there's a good chance that Votto outproduces Bruce over the long run in 2009, but only because it takes Bruce some time to dig in and turn a corner. Once he turns, he's The Man. (Marc Normandin)
2008-12-04 13:30:00 (link to chat)	Where do you see Jay Bruce winding up defensively? Can he do an adequate job in CF or will he shift to RF as soon as the Reds get a CF? For career value, would you rather have Bruce or David Price? Thanks. (KerryFam4 from Atlanta)	My natural antipathy towards pitchers will always make me answer "Bruce," although Price is the guy who gives me pause in that. I see Bruce as a right fielder who can and will play center until the better option emerges. He's not going to hurt the Reds out there, but he would be a plus right fielder, maybe win some awards. (Joe Sheehan)
2008-12-05 14:00:00 (link to chat)	Do you Reds fans finally have reason for optimism with a solid young core of Jay Bruce, Joey Votto, Edwin Encarnacion, Brandon Phillips, Chris Dickerson, Johnny Cueto, and Edinson Volquez? (Brandon from Charleston)	Absolutely, there's reason for optimism so long as Dusty Baker doesn't mangle those arms. I had the Reds as my sleeper team last year and while they didn't get there, most of the guys you mentioned are fascinating, with a ton of upside. The series I watched most closely all year long was when the Reds came to Yankee Stadium in late June. I don't see the Reds with a shot at the 2009 NL Central but I think third place is a possibility with the right moves this winter. One of which might be taking out a restraining order against Baker from coming to the ballpark. (Jay Jaffe)
2008-10-15 13:00:00 (link to chat)	With quality young talent like Jay Bruce, Johnny Cueto, Edinson Volquez, Joey Votto, and others, do you think the Reds are close to contending? (smitty25039 from Charleston)	If you haven't already, check out Kevin Goldstein's article on which teams might be the "next Rays" in the NL. http://baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=8203 The Reds are close, but as Goldstein says, the outlook is "semi-bright, but not perfect." One big problem is the outfield corners; they've got nobody now without Dunn, and it doesn't look like minor league center fielder Drew Stubbs is quite ready to make enough impact with the bat to move Jay Bruce to a corner. According to Goldstein, Cincinnati is also pretty weak in pitching prospects beyond the group that already hit the majors this season, and the 2008 results from Homer Bailey were discouraging. Still, Cueto and Volquez are a fantastic young duo, and I'm pretty high on Ramon Ramirez, too, who pitched well in September and has a nasty changeup. Not in 2009, but by 2010 they could be fighting for a division title if that starting trio continues to develop. (Caleb Peiffer)
2008-09-15 14:00:00 (link to chat)	Have you had a chance to watch Jay Bruce much? He really struggled with contact and plate discipline over the summer, but seems to have turned a corner the last few weeks. What's a reasonable expectation for next year? Is .270/.340/.500 too optimistic? (Rick from Chicago)	Actually, I think that's just about exactly right. Don't worry too much, he's going to be a stud. (Kevin Goldstein)
2008-07-17 13:00:00 (link to chat)	It seems like Jay Bruce's offense fell off a cliff and/or pitchers figured him out. Dump? (kristin from OR)	He's a young guy. I'm keeping him on my bench for now until he starts to work things out. It's a bit early for me to drop a talent like Bruce because of a few bad weeks...I'm playing wait and see for now, and I suggest you do the same. (Marc Normandin)
2008-06-23 12:00:00 (link to chat)	Any insight into Jay Bruce's decline in production the past few weeks? (Corkedbat from Dallas)	Well, for openers, it would have been impossible for him to keep hitting at the pace in the first 10-14 days of his career. The major leagues aren't as easy as Bruce made it look at the start. He's still going to be an outstanding player, though. Just call his slide regression to the mean. (John Perrotto)
2008-06-20 13:30:00 (link to chat)	Who'll be better for the rest of the year, Justin Upton or Jay Bruce? Who'll have a better career? (Mike from Queens)	Upton's contact issues are real, so I'd say Bruce in the short term. Long term, there aren't many properties more valuable than Jay Bruce, but Upton is one of them. (Joe Sheehan)
2008-06-20 13:30:00 (link to chat)	When it comes to the "business" of baseball, how much does the money invested in a player determine their ascent through the system? Who makes it faster, the non-drafted FA with better numbers in the critical areas or the bonus baby who is riding potential and ceiling? (adamtkay5 from Boston)	As far as I can tell, statistics don't really get you promoted through the minors no matter what your status. You move forward on scouting evaluations and age, for the most part. I think guys who play very well at Double-A or Triple-A create pressure on their organizations to promote them--I guess Clayton Kershaw and Jay Bruce are the most recent examples. Below that, though, you move based on how you're scouted. I'd be interested to hear Kevin Goldstein's opinion. (Joe Sheehan)
2008-06-17 15:00:00 (link to chat)	Jay Bruce: First ballot hall of famer or should they open a new "Hall of Bruce" just for him? (SC from Philadelphia)	ROFL, as they say. Hell of a start for the kid, to be sure. I look forward of seeing how well he handles the adjustments and the high expectations. (Jay Jaffe)
2008-06-02 12:00:00 (link to chat)	Shouldn't Barry Bonds take off his Jay Bruce costume and let the world know what he is doing? (Scott from Greenville, SC)	As much as I think he can still help a lot of teams, I really think we've seen the end of Barry. There doesn't even seem to be any teams even kicking the tires on him. (John Perrotto)
2008-06-02 12:00:00 (link to chat)	What do you think of Carlos Gomez's start this year(you hyped him pretty good last year) and do you think Jason Heyward is the next Jay Bruce? (Mike from Utica,NY)	I think Gomez is an outstanding talent who can be a superstar and he is already taking steps in that direction. Heyward is going to be a good one but I think probably a level or two below Bruce. (John Perrotto)
2008-06-02 12:00:00 (link to chat)	Followup on the Jay Bruce Q: does he improve the Reds enough to make them relevant? They've dug a pretty big hole and some other teams in the division are overperforming. (Bill from New Mexico)	They won't be relevant this year But guys like him, Votto, Cueto and Volquez make the Reds a chance to be really good in the very near future. (John Perrotto)
2008-05-30 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Jay Bruce comes up for auction next week in my fantasy league (points-based NL pool). The winner can keep his rights for the next six years. Worth breaking the bank on? And should I be concerned about Daric Barton (I already have his rights for the next six years)? Thanks! (Dennis from LA)	I stashed Bruce on my roster from draft day until now, so I'm all for spending on him if you get to keep him for six years. (Marc Normandin)
2008-05-27 13:00:00 (link to chat)	What's the over/under on how many starts Jay Bruce gets before Dusty starts throwing Corey Patterson and Ryan Freel back out there in CF? (Rob from Bloomington, IL)	I think we need to focus less on Dusty Baker and more on their front office. If the front office has some idea what it's doing, they'll tell him "Jay Bruce will start at least 20 times a month. Or we'll be looking for a new manager. Any questions?" (Nate Silver)
2008-05-27 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Hey Nate, Do you see any similarity between Jay Bruce and Delmon Young? #1 prospects with good power, avg, arm, but with poor plate discipline. Do you see Bruce turning out any better than Young? (Nick from NYC)	I think that's shortchanging Bruce a bit. His power has been a standard deviation or two better than Delmon's. (Nate Silver)
2008-05-28 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Who loses out on the most playing time due to Jay Bruce finally getting the callup? (Ryan from Milwaukee)	Let's start easy and then warm up. Wouldn't Corey Patterson seem like the obvious choice, given that he's largely without redeeming value? Am I missing something here? (Steven Goldman)
2008-04-29 14:00:00 (link to chat)	Drop Kearns for Jay Bruce? (31cornucopia from Trenton)	Yes, based on my thinking Bruce will be up before the ASB. (Marc Normandin)
2008-04-17 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Who is the better pair: Jay Bruce & Joba Chamberlain or Adam Jones & Clayton Kershaw? And by how much? (Franklin Stubbs from (LA))	Bruce and Chamberlain are the best hitting and pitching prospects in baseball, respectively. So they trump all other permutations. (Nate Silver)
2008-03-31 13:00:00 (link to chat)	For 100 years, Juan Pierre would have been a perennial all-star and possible hall of famer. Now, he gets beat out for a job by Ethier -- who ain't exactly Jay Bruce -- despite a $10 million salary. The final nail in the anti-statheads' coffin. Congratulations. (Sam from Santa Ana)	Thanks. We're currently soliciting donations for a wreath... That said, I don't think we should start making plans to dance on Pierre's grave just yet. He'll be back as soon as an injury or slump gives Torre an excuse. I figure he'll still get 400 fairly useless at bats when all is said and done. (Steven Goldman)
2008-03-25 14:00:00 (link to chat)	You knew this was coming: What sort of an impact do you see Jay Bruce, Evan Longoria, and Clay Buccholz making this season? Is Buchholz the Sox 5th starter right out of the gate? (mikeduin from Seattle)	Even if this spring seems to have become one industry-wide case of Operation Prospect Wipeout, I think all three will get significant playing time this year. The Willy Aybar thing isn't going to last (Aybar might stick, but he's not enough of a bat to carry third base), Bruce cannot possibly get overlooked for too many months, while Buchholz will be an asset from here till September. (Christina Kahrl)
2008-03-26 12:00:00 (link to chat)	Bryan, i'm a huge fan......Do you believe Jeff Clement has the goods to become a top tier MLB player? And just how good is Jay Bruce? (Ricky from Iowa)	Thanks, Ricky. Depending on your definition of top tier player, yes, I think Clement can be that good. His power for a catcher could place him top 10 at that position, and that's top tier, to me. Bruce is the best player alive that will not open the season in the Major Leagues, and he's a more talented baseball player than a decent percentage of guys that managed to crack 25-man rosters. And nothing I wrote in that sentence is a hyperbole. (Bryan Smith)
2008-03-26 12:00:00 (link to chat)	On your Jay Bruce comment...do you really think present day Jay Bruce is better than present day Barry Bonds? (Ameer from Bloomington, IN)	Ah, very nice, you caught me. I do not, Bonds is the exception to the rule. I do think Bruce is better than Sammy Sosa though, so there. (Bryan Smith)
2008-03-19 13:00:00 (link to chat)	I have Jay Bruce and Evan Longoria on my team right now. Right now, I have Longoria penciled in as my 3B... but if he's sent down, I need to grab another 3B off the waiver wire. Seeing as how I can only stash one of the two players on my bench, which one should I drop? (Rob from Bloomington, IL)	Someone else. (Will Carroll)
2008-03-18 17:00:00 (link to chat)	looking like the reds may actually go with patterson over jay bruce..is there any good reason you see for this? (gustavo from jax,fl)	As I've written -- and others have said as well -- Dusty Baker is the wrong man at the wrong time for the Reds job. If I had a gun to my head and my life depended on finding Baker a big league managing job, I would put him on a team with a strong veteran presence and no tough choices to make lineup wise. The only good that could come from it is that the Reds get off to such a horrendous start that he gets fired and the team hires someone who is ready to usher them into the next phase. That won't happen, though. They'll win just enough to keep Baker employed. (And Patterson does deserve a big league job -- just not at the expense of the likes of Jay Bruce.) (Jim Baker)
2008-03-05 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Jay Bruce or Joey Votto? (Steve-o from Fort Myers)	Jay Bruce. (Marc Normandin)
2008-02-07 14:00:00 (link to chat)	Joe, is there any excuse for not starting Jay Bruce on Opening Day? Is there anything left for him to learn in the minors? (Dan from Cincy)	Packing. Unpacking. Cliches. Differentiating among nice girls, groupies and...others. Sleeping in Holiday Inns. The difference between the Cards and Reds is that the Reds really could catch lightning in a bottle this year, so playing Bruce from the start makes sense. Why give away wins with Norris Hopper? (Joe Sheehan)
2008-01-31 13:00:00 (link to chat)	If someone had asked you two years ago who the #1 prospect would be in '08, would Jay Bruce have been in the discussion? That said, who's the #1 prospect in 2010? (y2joelicho from MN)	No. To answer your second question, I'll go way out on a limb and say Tim Beckham. (Kevin Goldstein)
2008-01-31 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Have sent a few post trying to get your thoughts on Bruce's 08' season projection wise.. Don't want to go there? (Johnny from No love for Jay Bruce?)	Dude, I have 542 Unanswered questions, so don't take it personally. No love for Jay Bruce? I just ranked him No. 1! That's not enough love? Assuming the Reds do the right thing and play Bruce from Day One next year, Otto the Pit Bull (tm) says he'll hit .287/.353/.491. (Kevin Goldstein)
2008-01-28 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Please settle an argument for me. Based on their pure hitting abilty and nothing else, Travis Snider's ceiling is as good as Jay Bruce's. True or false? Thanks! (Ken from Albany)	False. Snider's build leaves his power potential a little behind Bruce. Snider is really built like Matt Stairs, and while his potential is certainly higher than that, it's a frame that is limiting. Jay Bruce is the top guy in the minor leagues, though, and there really aren't many more that Snider's offensive ceiling comes behind. (Bryan Smith)
2008-01-28 13:00:00 (link to chat)	What is your reasoning for putting Jones ahead of Bruce? (yoink from trapped)	I don't think I did, I think you read that wrong. If not, I typed it wrong. Jay Bruce is the best prospect in baseball. Adam Jones is good, but he's not as good as Jay Bruce. Now I'm sure I didn't type it wrong. (Bryan Smith)
2008-01-28 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Jay Bruce or the Cloverfield Monster? (Chris Anderson from The Nest)	A good last question, I think. You know, Chris, I think it's pretty sad that everyone in the U.S. have seen the Cloverfield monster (haven't they, by now?) and very few have seen Jay Bruce so far. I think once Bruce gets the following Abrams' Cloverfield has, it will become quite obvious: The Boss reigns supreme over Godzilla Jr. (Bryan Smith)
2008-01-22 19:00:00 (link to chat)	Bill James' 2008 Handbook projections seem to have Jay Bruce "penciled in" in CF for the Reds his year. Not only that, but those projections are huge. The question is, was the move of Josh Hamilton made with the idea that it'll be much easier to return Ryan Freel to his super-sub role at midseason than it would've been to try to shoehorn Bruce in, or is management serious about giving him the job as long as he doesn't have a disappointing camp? The Braves arguably gave up a considerable amount (in Joey Devine) to buy Jordan Schafer a little more time at a higher level - would Bruce not benefit from at least a couple more months' development at a higher level? (clvclv from Marion, NC)	I'm a big fan of getting superior talent to the major leagues at an early age, especially in the case of position players (not so much with pitchers). What is Bruce going to do in Triple A in 2008 that he didn't already do? If he's going to sit on the bench most of the time, then, yes, send him back. I think he can play in the bigs now, albeit at a reduced rate for a year or so. (Jim Baker)
2008-01-15 14:30:00 (link to chat)	Thoughts on Colby Rasmus next year. He hit .275 but if you throw out June and July when he was ill then your talking about a kid who had a .340 average in AA. Could you see him becoming a better all around player than Jay Bruce and a 8-10 time AS in center. (Mike from Utica,NY)	I really like Rasmus, though I'm not sure if he's going to be as good as I think Bruce will be. I'm also developing an irrational interest in Bruce's career though, after some of the work I've done this winter so far. (Marc Normandin)
2008-01-23 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Jay Bruce and Andrew McCutchen, how close are they? (Manoog from Odessa)	We probably shouldn't be bundling those two together any more. Bruce is like the $300 hotel you stay at, and McCutchen is like the free USA Today that's waiting outside your doorstep. (Nate Silver)
2008-01-09 13:00:00 (link to chat)	Will the following players still be at the same position in 3 years: (a) Jay Bruce--CF, (b) Ryan Braun--3B, and (c) Miguel Cabrera--3B. (jwr from Chicago)	A. Leaning towards yes, but not in five years. B. No. C. No. (Kevin Goldstein)

BP Roundtables

Date	Roundtable Name	Comment
2010-10-06 10:00:00	2010 Playoffs Day One	My season-opening prediction that Jay Bruce would be the NL MVP this year was admittedly insane, but I do think the kid is going to be a magastar soon. On a related note, kudos to the reader who responded to that prediction by saying he felt Joey Votto had a legitimate shot at the MVP. (David Laurila)
2010-10-06 10:00:00	2010 Playoffs Day One	FYI, Scott Rolen, Jonny Gomes, Jay Bruce combined 3-for-19 against Roy during the regular season. (Jesse Behr)

PITCHf/x Hitter Profile

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