Ron Washington Still Predicting Big Things For Michael Young

Young is hitting an uncharacteristically meager .269 for the year

Even in a year where Michael Young’s on-base percentage is two points below his career batting average (.300 and .302, respectively), Rangers manager Ron Washington is sticking by the veteran clubhouse leader--and beyond merely sticking by him, he’s predicting big things for the struggling 1B/DH.

This is nothing new. Washington has responded to questions of Young’s lack of productivity all season long by (a) giving the veteran a vote of confidence, and (b) predicting that he’ll break out to do some big things for the team sooner or later, at least before the season is out.

Only now, there’s just about a month and a half remaining in the regular season. Time is running out on a turnaround for the elder statesman of the two-time reigning American League Champs. But all the same, Washington believes that Young is fully capable of such a sudden resurgence.

“I know his season isn’t up to par on what he’s capable of doing, but I’m not getting off the ship,” Washington said, per the Dallas Morning News. “He’s done it for 12 years and the bottom line is before the year is over, he’s going to do something grand for this club. I’m willing to wait for it as the manager. If fans are jumping off the ship, I’m a little surprised after all he’s done for this team.

“He does way more than what happens whenever he gets in the box. He busts his butt every day working early. He works with other players to try and help them get better. I’m a big believer in Michael Young. And if the ship sinks, I’ll still be on it.”

Young will enter the third game of a four game set against the Yankees in the Bronx tonight sporting a .269 average, three home runs and 45 RBIs.

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