I have compiled a list of some players to watch for based on their performance in 2011. The player’s performances vary from career bests to carrier worst in numbers. Other players have been involved in lucrative trades and should be looked at all season long to see how well they adjust to their new teams.

American League:

Albert Pujols–Los Angeles Angels (1B):
Going into his 11th season and still a threat, Pujols has never been on any other team but the cardinals until now. For $240 plus other odd perks, Pujols will now play for the Angels as their possible designated hitter and first baseman. With 37 homeruns, a .299 average and 99 RBI’s, my expectations for Pujols will be almost similar numbers, possibly better because he does not have to first base to be in the roster, so he will most likely be pinch hitting on his off days.

Matt Moore–Tampa Bay Rays (P):
This young gun will most likely be the next ace competing with David Price. Even though he pitched relief for a few innings last season, he baffled veterans with his velocity and movement on his pitches. Consistency is the only variable we have not seen long term, and hopefully for the Rays, it will be solid.

Curtis Granderson–New York Yankees (OF):
Granderson has proved that he can hit for power. Despite how early it is in his career. I think that Granderson can keep up his power. His power jumped up because a few minor adjustments, one of which was that he kept both his hands on the finish of his swing. For awhile little kids emulated power hitters like Bonds and Maguire who had the majestic finish of one hand, which ironically lead to Granderson’s poor year in 2010. Granderson not only has the ability to 35+ homeruns, but also to get his average up to low three hundreds like Pujols.

National League:

Steven Strasburg–Washington Nationals (P):
Sound the trumpets because the star is back from rehab! After Tommy John surgery on his elbow in 2010, Strasburg will be pitching opening day against the Cubs. With only five career starts, this man is already a legend in town where baseball fans are passive in their admiration. He will give the Nationals something to believe as they take on the season with their ace. I have faith in this young man, but only the conditioning of his rehab will tell how well he will pitch this season.

Chipper Jones–Atlanta Braves (3B):
This year we will greet Chipper for the last time, as this amazing player will leave us after 2012. After suffering a knee injury last year, we can only expect modest numbers from this 18-year veteran. With lifetime average of .304 and 454 homeruns, the 6 time all-star will leave the game as Braves legend.

Jose Reyes–Miami Marlins (SS):
He says he wants to win and well…I’m not quite sure how well he will succeed. A new uniform, stadium, a few stars, and a notoriously ill-tempered manager (Ozzie Guillen) will only go so far. However, this Marlins team has the ability to compete with the Phillies and the Braves if they can put the whole equation together and work as a team instead of a few stars carrying the team. As we have learned in the past with teams like the Yankees and Red Soxs, and all forms of sports in general, a few stars does not make a World Series Championship team. I honestly do not know what to expect from him because most of the big news I here from him are his injuries.