Berkman’s Bad Year

Lance Berkman is having a bad year - this is no secret. The Astros most consistent position player the past five years is underperforming, not just with his bat, but with his mouth. Known as a clubhouse clown with wits and charm, Berkman has spent 2007 complaining, whining and moaning. Let’s take a look at some of his recent on the record statements:

• On Burke’s demotion in April: “I don’t like it. If you’re going to put Chris Burke on the bench, I think it’s a horrible move.” Berkman was quickly reprimanded by team officials.
• On his June ejection for arguing balls and strikes: “It shouldn’t have escalated into anything. All I said was, no way, no way.” Berkman proceeded to throw his batting gloves and equipment bag onto the field before exiting the dugout. Very mature.
• On leaving the clubhouse and returning to the field after his ejection: “What are you supposed to do? Just sit around with ice on you while your teammates are involved in a bench-clearing brawl? You can’t do that. No matter what happens, I don’t care how much they fine me or how much they suspend me, I’d do it again in a heartbeat.'’ Hey Berkman…have you seen Carlos Lee lately? They call him El Cabello not because he’s as big as a horse, but because he knocked out a horse in 4 rounds one day back in Panama. I think he’ll survive without you.

So…Berkman’s not been making the brightest decisions as of late, and is obviously out of his game. Let’s look at some possible reasons why he may be in a funk:

• He’s no longer the big dog. Lee’s is Houston’s new $100 million man, and he’s earning his keep so far. Maybe Berkman’s jealous.
• Berkman is still upset that his buddy Burke isn’t living up to expectations. (Oh no, not another clubhouse couple a la Pettitte / Clemens.)
• He’s got the fat woes. Really…it looks like he’s put on some weight this year, so Fat Elvis may make a resurgence.
• He’s in a once-in-a-lifetime long slump. If this is the case, we can expect the real Slim Shady…uh…Slim Berkman…uh…Fat Elvis to stand up in the summer. He has shown some signs of improvement in the Colorado series, despite his mental mistakes (two homers in his last four at bats as of writing).

Posted in National League | No Comments »