Lance Berkman and his new found speed

[cannedcorn]

Ever time I bring it up people laugh. He just stole his tenth of the season. Why is 20 swipes so unrealistic?

[yaboygino]

it isnt, im expecting 25-30

[cannedcorn]

Lance Berkman with 30 swipes, sounds nice

[Inukchuk]

I think the reason everyone's so pessimistic is because people don't just get faster. I can't think of anyone who went from slow and plodding to a top 15 basestealer. If you can think of anyone, I'd love to hear it.

Gino, if you're expecting 30, prepare to be really disappointed... 20's a possibility, though.

[RASportsnut]

As an owner with Berkman on my team, I have just been awed by his performance YTD. I certainly didn't expect the steals he is getting. He truly is becoming a 5 tool player.

Couldn't be more pleased.

[BillyMafia]

I have Tejada and he has been stealing more bases than I expected. I don't think it is Berkman or Miggy as much as Cecil Cooper's base running philosophy.

[mojoorising]

look at the entire team... most of their SB are up. I honestly dont see the astro players tailing off in the SB category so Berkman getting 20 - 25 is a real possiblity.

[pokerplaya]

As someone who has only seen Berkman play once this year, but an owner of him on almost all my teams, can someone explain to me how he is doing it? Are pitchers just not paying attention? Certainly with 10 swipes, they have to start...

[Inukchuk]

As someone who has only seen Berkman play once this year, but an owner of him on almost all my teams, can someone explain to me how he is doing it? Are pitchers just not paying attention? Certainly with 10 swipes, they have to start...

I've caught 2 of hit 10 swipes live. On one, he left before the pitcher even picked up his foot to deliver the pitch. On the other, he was running hard and just beat the throw. I think it may be a combination of having a better idea when to go, the new base stealing philosphy, and perhaps the teensiest bit of added speed. I would imagine the steals will tail off as teams become more careful when he's on base, but I can still see 20 swipes by year's end...

[harold_bush]

I think the reason everyone's so pessimistic is because people don't just get faster. I can't think of anyone who went from slow and plodding to a top 15 basestealer. If you can think of anyone, I'd love to hear it.

Gino, if you're expecting 30, prepare to be really disappointed... 20's a possibility, though.

Just because one steals more bases doesn't mean he got faster, could be as simple as he is just attmepting more. Manager philosopy, many other possible reasons. It is also possible to get faster, especially someone like him who was a little overweight. He has rededicated himself through diet and workout, and it has really paid off. I'd expect 20-25 SBs, which means he will have a tough time not being a top 5 player by year's end.