The foundation, then, appears to be in place for Hood. Now he must continue his upward arc.

LeCroy and Tarasco would like for him to become a bigger threat to steal bases. He stole five last season and was caught seven times. Tarasco, however, believes Hood is capable of at least 20 steals.

Both also want Hood's slugging percentage and home run totals to increase, but there's less urgency for that.

"I'm sure with age and the number of pitches he sees, the more he develops his swing, you'll see those power numbers," Tarasco said.

Thanks to his refined approach, Hood believes it's all within reach.

"I just want to maximize being a team player and get the most out of my at-bats and defense," he said. "As long as I stay focused on what I'm doing right now, the rest of it will take care of itself."

Rich Campbell: 540/735-1974
Email: rcampbell@freelancestar.com