Wes Helms Returns!

The Marlins have made a habit of reacquiring old players. They did it with Jeff Conine. They did it with Armando Benitez. They did it with Charles Johnson, etc. And even when they don't actually get them, they almost do (Livan Hernandez, for instance).

That's why I'm not surprised that the Marlins claimed Wes Helms for their next rehabilitation project (and why Juan Pierre - if the finances can be worked out - could be next). To fully appreciate the enigma that is Wes Helms, you have to compare his 2006 and 2007 seasons:

2006: .329/.390/.575, with 10 HR in 240 AB
2007: .246/.297/.368 with 5 HR in 280 AB

Which Wes Helms are the Marlins going to get? Let's look at his career numbers:

Career: .265/.326/.435

If I were a gambling man (and I can be from time to time), I'd say that's a legitimate estimate. The one real concern, however, is whether the guy has lost his swing. His most recent results, as shown above, have been horrible. I think the Marlins would gladly take something close to the career average and make him a part-time starter with Jorge Cantu at 3B. At least the defense would improve.

Let's look at some takes from Marlins bloggers:

Marlins Today stresses his defensive advantages, while projecting poor offensive results based on a horrid 2008 Spring.

Fish Stripes approached the deal more systematically, subtly endorsing it while speculating on whether Robert Andino should have been sent down instead of Jason Wood. Personally, I would have chosen Wood in a heartbeat.

Lastly, here is my AVG/OBP/SLG projection for Wes Helms' 2008 Marlins season:

.278/.335/.456

Call me optimistic, but Florida has been the Fountain of Youth for players aplenty.