Toronto Blue Jays' Alex Rios Not the Bust He's Made Out to Be

Personally, I feel bad that fans and media alike have been getting so down on Alex Rios this year. He may not have the power numbers expected but there are other areas where he has excelled which seem to be overlooked.

Sure the Blue Jays have struggled and alot was expected of both Rios and the team this year but, here are a few reasons not to get down on the guy.

First off, there is the RBI argument. Alex Rios' 50 RBIs halfway through August are a major disappointment. However with such an inconsistent group of batters, Rios didn't have as many RBI opportunities as last year (especially considering he batted leadoff numerous times this year).

Another problem for the young outfielder is when Vernon Wells is out of the lineup (which has been plenty this year), Rios tends to fall a bit flat offensively. This however is most likely due to the added pressure that is placed upon him by himself, the fans and media.

Now let's look at some positives that don't get enough attention.

When Wells is out of the lineup, Rios' bat may go a bit cold but one must also remember he is the one who has to make up for Well's absence in the outfield, shifting over to center field. Alex has filled in admirably for the oft injured Wells this year in a somewhat unfamiliar center field.

Look at all that speed! Rios' stolen base numbers have shot through the roof as he is currently 4th in the AL with 30 swiped bags this far. Typically when a players stolen base numbers rise, his power numbers decline. That being said we may have found a reason for the decline in power.

All this being said, you figure Alex Rios ends the year with a stat line something along the lines of a .285 average, 12 hr, 65 RBI, 45 SB.

Not exactly the line you want for a number 3 hitter but, regardless of what was expected the numbers aren't as bad as some make them out to be.

The power has declined but with injuries, inconsistency (in the Jays lineup) and added pressure, Rios has stepped up in other areas and has undoubtedly been the teams most valuable batter.