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Thu, Aug 20th 2009, 09:43
Hanley streaking toward first batting title
As a 23-year-old in 2007, Hanley Ramirez flirted with the National League batting title before finishing tied for third with a .332 average.
The Marlins All-Star shortstop is no stranger to challenging for a batting title.
He’s doing it again this season, though Ramirez is firmly out front of the race as he strives to become the first Marlins player to claim the honor.
Entering Wednesday night’s game with the Astros at Minute Maid Park, Ramirez was hitting .359 to go along with 18 home runs, 36 doubles and 82 RBIs. He has a .419 on-base percentage and a .572 slugging percentage.
In just his fourth full season, Ramirez has consistently posted staggering numbers. He offers a combination of speed and power, as he has 23 stolen bases and 77 runs scored.
Ramirez ripped a two-out single in the eighth inning off LaTroy Hawkins on Wednesday, pushing his hitting streak to 14 straight, which matches a career best. The 25-year-old All-Star also hit in 14 straight games June 24-July 7, 2008.
Assessing where he was two years ago to now, Ramirez said: “It’s a lot of adjustments and a lot of work.”
His pregame preparation is improved, as he’s concentrated more on his game in the field and at the plate.
“It’s a lot of consistency. You’ve got to be mentally prepared to play the game,” Ramirez said. “My preparation has been really good before the game. That’s what matters. Your preparation has to be really good.”
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