LA Angels: Here’s 3 bold predictions for the 2021 season

David Fletcher-MLB’s 2021 hits leader (200-plus hits)

My first bold prediction involves a player with a brand new contract: David Fletcher.

The Angels second baseman agreed to a five-year, $26 million extension just before Opening Day on Thursday. It’s safe to say the Halos can expect a lot of hits from Fletcher in that span. I believe Fletcher will surpass the 200-hit threshold and lead Major League Baseball in 2021.

Angels: David Fletcher will lead MLB in total hits this season.

Expect manager Joe Maddon to use Fletcher as his leadoff man in as many games as he can throughout the year.

David Fletcher Career Statistics:

• 2018 (307 PA): (.275 BA) 78 Hits
• 2019 (653 PA): (.290 BA) 173 Hits
• 2020 (230 PA): (.333 BA) 66 Hits

Last summer, Fletcher finished 11th in MLB with 66 hits which was twelve shy of Washington’s Trea Turner (78) as the league leader. However, Fletcher played in 49 games and had 29 less plate appearances compared to Turner’s 59 games and 259 PAs in 2020.

Heading into Sunday, Fletcher rides a three-game hitting streak. In that span he’s gone 4-for-12 (.333 BA) with one walk and four runs scored. He’s currently five hits back of the 2021 league leader, Eddie Rosario.

There’s plenty of time for Fletcher to make up ground, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he rises atop the list in the next game or two.

I think this Angels team will finish the season leading many offensive categories, and in the mix of it all will be the straw that stirs the drink, David Fletcher.