N.Y. Observer: Megdal: Giambi Tries to Reverse the Irreversible

Giambi: Balletto, si.

Of course, even assuming Giambi finds a comfort zone in the field, his hitting will largely dictate playing time, too. When he was in his prime, he walked more than 100 times four straight seasons, hit at least .314 each year and averaged nearly 39 home runs per year. What part steroids may have played in that performance is impossible to determine. But either way, that Jason Giambi is probably gone for good.

His high in batting average since 2002 is .271, and last year he even saw his power drop precipitously, to just 14 home runs in 254 at bats. His ability to take walks remained, though, and Giambi believes that his stronger legs will improve his offense as well.

“Well, for one thing, I hope my doubles go back up,” said Giambi, who had as many as 47 doubles in his prime, but just eight last year. “A lot of singles last year should be doubles this year. And there should be more first-to-third, more second-to-home.”

Though he’s yet to collect a hit in the season’s first three games, Giambi hit .413 this spring. Giambi believes that if his legs hold up, the hitting will take care of itself.

“I still have the batting eye, the power,” Giambi said. “I’m hoping for a big year.”