Baseball's walk year all-stars for 2010

By KEN DAVIDOFF AND MARK LA MONICAken.davidoff@newsday.comFebruary 17, 2010

In 2007, Jorge Posada hit .338, or 51 points higher than his previous best batting average of .287 in 2000.

Now take a look at Adrian Beltre's numbers from 2004: 48 home runs, 121 RBI, .334 batting average and a .629 slugging percentage. Or, +25, +46, +.44 and + .154 over his previous career bests.

Still think players don't know when their contracts are up?

Newsday baseball columnist Ken Davidoff offers up his look at the top players at each position in the final year of their contracts.

Catcher: Joe Mauer, Minnesota

He would set off a massive bidding war, with the Yankees and Red Sox among those interested, but he appears intent on signing a long-term extension with the Twins.

First base: Carlos Pena, Tampa Bay

Has become great on both sides of the ball. As a Scott Boras client, he's headed toward free agency.

Second base: Orlando Hudson, Minnesota

After signing his second straight low-ball deal, Hudson will try to build up his value in 2010. Bad news for him: The Mets still have Luis Castillo signed for 2011.

Shortstop: Derek Jeter, Yankees

The big question, of course: Would he actually go anywhere else?

Third base: Adrian Beltre, Boston

Has a player option for 2011, so the quality of his 2010 season will determine whether the slick fielder will shop himself again.

Left field: Carl Crawford, Tampa Bay

Look at his numbers. He's quite good, but perhaps not as good as you think.

Centerfield: Coco Crisp, Oakland

The A's have a $5.75 million team option on him. Never turned out to be as good as projected.

Right field: Jayson Werth, Philadelphia

Will the Phillies find room in their payroll for one of their most underrated players?

Designated hitter: David Ortiz, Boston

It's a big 2010 for Big Papi, coming off a wildly erratic 2009.