amag
09-29-2002, 01:13 AM
09/27/2002 9:34 pm ET
MLBeat: Drew's September surge
By Jared Hoffman / MLB.com
ST. LOUIS -- J.D. Drew, who was in the Cardinals starting lineup for a fourth consecutive game on Friday, has had a power surge at the at plate just as the Cardinals head into the postseason.
Going into Friday's game, Drew had homered in three consecutive games. Prior to this streak, Drew hadn't homered since Sept. 1 and had just one homer in span of 40 games.
"I've been having my ups and downs trying to find something that works," said Drew. "I don't know what I did that works but I need to go back and watch the video and try and figure it out again."
Drew hasn't been at full strength for much of the season. Tendinitis in his right knee has limited his ability to play long stretches of consecutive games. Drew plans to have the knee operated on after the season but has not decided on the type of procedure.
"I'm buying time now trying to push my way through and get to the offseason," said Drew. "It's a matter of maintaining it and trying to keep it where it's at without it getting any worse."
Eli Marrero, who is hitting .303 with six homers and 14 RBIs, will likely get most of the starts in right field in the postseason. If Drew can stay hot, he would be a valuable left-handed bat off the bench.
Drew left Friday's game after being hit by a pitch in his right side, but the injury is not considered serious.
MLBeat: Drew's September surge
By Jared Hoffman / MLB.com
ST. LOUIS -- J.D. Drew, who was in the Cardinals starting lineup for a fourth consecutive game on Friday, has had a power surge at the at plate just as the Cardinals head into the postseason.
Going into Friday's game, Drew had homered in three consecutive games. Prior to this streak, Drew hadn't homered since Sept. 1 and had just one homer in span of 40 games.
"I've been having my ups and downs trying to find something that works," said Drew. "I don't know what I did that works but I need to go back and watch the video and try and figure it out again."
Drew hasn't been at full strength for much of the season. Tendinitis in his right knee has limited his ability to play long stretches of consecutive games. Drew plans to have the knee operated on after the season but has not decided on the type of procedure.
"I'm buying time now trying to push my way through and get to the offseason," said Drew. "It's a matter of maintaining it and trying to keep it where it's at without it getting any worse."
Eli Marrero, who is hitting .303 with six homers and 14 RBIs, will likely get most of the starts in right field in the postseason. If Drew can stay hot, he would be a valuable left-handed bat off the bench.
Drew left Friday's game after being hit by a pitch in his right side, but the injury is not considered serious.