When Tim Lincecum (RHP, SF) started the 2012 season by surrendering 16 ER in his first 13.2 IP, everyone chalked it up to small sample size. And since then, he has had some better outings. But after seven GS, the numbers have not yet recovered.

At mid-May, it's time to start looking at batters to target for the balance of the year (and batters to avoid).

For the past three seasons, Robinson Cano (2B, NYY) has been one of the steadiest producers in baseball. His owners pay a premium for this consistency so Cano's slow start in 2012 has led to some understandable frustration. Is there something more happening here than just an early season slump?

Rick Porcello (RHP, DET) added more velocity to his fastball from April 2011 to April 2012 than any other starting pitcher. Some other velocity changes might surprise you too.

A lot of players seeing movement up and down in ownership levels. But not much there worth going crazy for.

In his prime, Juan Pierre (OF, PHI) used exceptional contact skills and blazing speed to wreck havoc on opposing pitchers. Now in his mid-30s and with his fifth team in eight years, Pierre is still deploying exceptional contact skills and good speed to disrupt opposing pitchers.

Jose Bautista’s (OF, TOR) “black swan” moment began in September, 2009. From the beginning of that month to the end of last year, he hit 107 home runs. Fast forward to 2012, and it looks like Bautista’s plumage is beginning to fade.

This early, skills and results often do not match for relievers who may have around 10 innings pitched. You can take advantage of this.

Jose Reyes' (SS, MIA) first month-plus in South Florida hasn't been overly enjoyable. At right around .500, the team is playing worse than expected, and Reyes has yet to provide the spark a the top of their lineup.

We can learn from Albert Pujols' past HR slumps.

Blessed with exceptional ability and all five tools, Adam Jones (OF, BAL) has always had the ingredients for stardom. Yet through four MLB seasons, Jones has posted strong if unspectacular numbers leaving many evaluators speculating if there was another level he could reach as a player. So far in 2012, Jones is flirting with that elusive "next level."