Wouldn't say Fowler had more power, the stats you posted show a higher SLG for Eaton.
Good point, albeit by two points only. Lots of things to look at here. I suppose I was looking at the HR's mostly. A higher SLG would suggest more extra base hits for Eaton, but less HR's. Again, only two points higher. Although, Fowler has the better career SLG (419 vs 390).
Minute maid is pretty short down the lines which could help Fowler's HR total, but the wind in Wrigley could also help his HR total when blowing out, who knows. Conversely, Fowler will have a much shorter CF defensively, which could help him, again, who knows. Interestingly, Fowler has the better career FLD%.
The stats are still pretty similar either way you look at it. I will still give Fowler the edge for being a SH, a better career OBP, and 7 years to 3 years experience.
EDIT to add:
Looking at the extra base hits for last year, Eaton had 26 2B and 10 3B, while Fowler had 21 2B and 4 3B. Eaton had 52 more AB's. I suppose you could argue it either way, Fowler has more power, or he played in a shorter park (down the lines). Again, very similar stats.
To me, OBP is the single most important stat for improvement for the Cubs, and is why I give the edge to the Cubs here cuz of Fowler having the better career OBP.
For instance, the Cubs were 5th in the MLB in HR's, but 3rd from the last in OBP (w/o Fowler). This is the single best stat that will translate to more runs, and ultimately more wins for the Cubs.
In contrast, the Sox were 9th in the MLB in HR's, and 20th in OBP (with Eaton). I'm thinking Melky's OBP can help the Sox here as well.
