Young deep in slump as D-backs struggle
Apr 25, 2011, 3:45 PM | Updated: 4:57 pm
The Diamondbacks ended their six-game road trip Sunday on a four-game slide, with their All-Star centerfielder deep into a 2 for 25 slump.
“I’m seeing the ball great; I’m just missing,” said Chris Young of his recent struggles. “Just getting under the ball a little bit.”
Gibson has tried his best to give the 27-year-old outfielder the spark he’s been lacking, moving Young from fifth to first after the Reds series. Unfortunately, it didn’t help him much, as Young went 1 for 9 in the leadoff spot, then ended the Mets series back at fifth where he went 0-4 and only saw nine pitches in his four at bats.
“I like C.Y,” said Gibson. “I don’t think that he’s that far off for us, to be honest with you, but [he] hasn’t had good results this whole trip.”
And Gibson is right; it has been undoubtedly a rough road trip for Young, who saw his average drop from .267 to .212 in the span of a week.
“Early in the season, if you a have a little slump, the numbers really reflect that just because you don’t have many at bats,” Young said after Saturday’s 6-4 loss in which he went 0 for 5.
And his difficulties haven’t solely been at the plate this season. The speedster, who has 82 career stolen bases, was caught stealing in his only attempt earlier this season.
Still, despite an ugly .680 OBP, Young already has 4 home runs and 14 RBI (both team highs) in the 20 games he’s played in this year. And things are looking up for Young heading back to Arizona to play three games against Philadelphia, who he hit .400 against last year (his highest average against any NL team).
“After a tough road trip, getting home and getting back to your comfort zone is always nice,” Young said. “You know it’s a new series and a new week.”
