Players to watch at Arnold Palmer Invitational

The Florida swing continues on the PGA Tour, as the players head to Bay Hill for Arnold Palmer's Invitational at Bay Hill.

This year's event marks the fourth year it has been the last leg of the Florida Swing for the PGA Tour. And who else better to wrap things up in the Sunshine State than 'The King'.

Bay Hill has since gone from a par-70 track the first three years. To now a par-72 course after extensive renovations to the course.

In 2011, the course had a scoring average of 73.203, which ranked second-highest among non-major courses, with a par of 72.

The wind and weather; as always in Florida, will play a pivotal role in which way the scores can go this week.

Often thought of as a "big hitters' track with it's generous fairways. It actually opens the door for more than just the bombers to attack.

Bay Hill was ranked 15th in 2011, among most difficult greens in regulation to hit. The players approaches to the green will be key this week to the victor.

Let's look at some players to watch this week as Arnie plays host.

Tiger Woods

Yes, he pulled out of Doral with a gimpy Achilles and many questioned that move as he was not in contention. Though e seemed fine Monday and Tuesday during the Tavistock Cup.

Woods is a six-time champion at this event, as well as the leading money winner.

His putting has been coming around at times in recent events. Though his approach shots have seemed to be either long ro short of the yardage he needs. You still have to put a six-time winner on the list.

Bo Van Pelt

Van Pelt has posted top-10 finishes in each of his last four stroke play events in 2012.

Last week at Copperhead, he led the field in putting and currently ranked on the PGA Tour in total driving, and third in strokes gained putting.

BVP has also never missed a cut at Bay Hill in all seven appearances he has made at this event.

Bubba Watson

Yes, I know I said this course doesn't "always' favor the bombers. However, with Watson's creativity and ability to move the ball. The generous fairways set up nicely for him.

Currently leading the PGA Tour in driving distance and greens in regulation. That combination could be lethal this week at Bay Hill.

Watson has not finished outside the top-20, in six starts this season on the PGA Tour.

1 comment:

  1. Per the PGA Tour media center. Bo Van Pelt has withdrawn from the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill.

    ReplyDelete