The Unmaking of Corey Patterson

After four full seasons as a starting outfielder in Chicago, Patterson compiled an unbearable 5:1 strikeout-to-walk ratio.

The Cubs extinguished Corey's star in 2006 by sending him to Baltimore in exchange for two minor league afterthoughts.

A positive addition to Baltimore's lineup in 2006 where he hit 16 home runs and stole 45 bases, Patterson slipped back down the development ladder in 2007 with an odious .690 OPS.

At age 28, Corey now gets a chance with Cincinnati and a second shot to impress Dusty Baker, his manager during his Chicago days.

Center field is a weakness for the team, so Patterson couldn't have asked for a better situation to showcase any talent he has left.

I'd like to believe Patterson will make the Reds' opening day roster, but in reality, he's more likely to find himself on a bus to Triple-A Louisville come the fourth week in March.

For the time, he'll provide the Reds with outfield depth in case of injury. However, if Corey can turn back the clock and perform in Triple-A like the baseball world expected him to do in 2001, then we might finally witness the first step in the making of Corey Patterson.

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