The Old Andruw?

Since leaving the Braves in 2007, Andruw Jones’ career has gone from MVP candidate to AAA disaster. But it wasn’t like his problems began the moment he put on a Dodgers uniform. His dramatic free fall began in the 2007 season when his homeruns were almost cut in half (41 to 26) and his average, which was never his strong point, dropped 40 points.

But then came 2008, a season in which he managed only 3 homeruns and 34 RBIs in 75 games. It appeared the once bright center fielder’s star was quickly burning out.

In a last ditch effort, Jones signed a minor league contract with the Texas Rangers for the 2009 season. Jones mainly took the deal so he could work with their hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo – who also worked with Jeff Francoeur in the offseason. Admittedly, Jones has played sparingly over the first few months but in his 160 at-bats this season he has hit 14 dingers including three in Wednesday’s Ranger victory. It is not known if these numbers will continue or if the Rangers will increase his playing time, but at least for now, it feels like the old Andruw Jones is back.

(Photo: Getty Images)