Cleveland Indians: Has Travis Hafner Returned to Slugger Status?

The Cleveland Indians have started the 2011 season as hot as can be.  No one expected this early-season success the Tribe has accomplished.  A large reason for the winning is the reemergence of Travis Hafner.  

For those who may not be familiar with Hafner, the man nicknamed "Pronk" was once an offensive juggernaut for the Indians.  Between 2004-2006, Hafner's averages: .308/.612/.1032.  He also averaged 33 HRs and 111 RBI.  At the time, Hafner was just beginning to enter his prime as a player.  He was feared by pitchers throughout the league, drawing plenty of intentional walks.  The Tribe faithful even quartered off a section of The Jake for Hafner, named "Pronkville".  

During the 2007 season, the Indians brass rewarded Hafner with a four year/ $57 mil. contract.  The deal was a bargain for the Indians.  That's when the trouble began.  Hafner produced a subpar 2007 season.  Then, the injuries began.  Chronic shoulder and elbow ailments shelved Pronk for months at a time, and sapped him of his trademark strength and power.  

For the next two years, Pronk's offensive numbers took a nosedive and he couldn't stay off the Disabled List.  The bargain deal the Indians thought they made was quickly turning into a disaster for the small market club.  

The 2010 season saw a somewhat-healthy Hafner show signs of life.  His batting average rose slightly, and he stayed off the DL for the most part.  However, he still paled in comparison with the Pronk of old.

Prior to 2011, Hafner and the Indians declared the slugger to be back to 100 percent health. Regardless, no one expected Hafner to do this.  His averages in 2011 through thirty games: .340/.528/.932.  He also has five home runs and 16 RBI.  

Although his power numbers may not be all the way back, Pronk seems to be returning to his former glory days.  If the Indians are to remain contenders for the AL Central crown, Hafner will need to perform well.