Delusional Expectations

From the pageant show mother to the investor seeking better than expected returns, we are all beset by the expectations placed on us by others. Oftentimes, it is good to set high goals. After all, we all need targets to try to meet. On the other hand, is it reasonable to assume something that has been expected numerous times before only to never be met? Ain't that the definition of madness?

For instance, we have all pulled for James Loney to be a slugging first baseman. He appears to have the tools. Unfortunately, in the last 4+ years as a starter he has yet to consistently hit home runs. Loney has average only 12 homers a season the past 4 years, and it appears obvious that this is what we should expect year in and year out. He just isn't a power hitter.

In light of that reality, I ran across something that borders on the delusional. Ned Colletti was on MLB Network Radio recently and he said the following, via a tweet from Mel Antonen.Are you kidding me? Expecting 20+ home runs next season is like expecting Mark Ellis to hit .325 next year. It ain't gonna happen.