I'll admit that I did not like the guy at all early on this season (probably because he was only batting a hundred-something). I thought he was the weak link of the team. However, he has proven me absolutely wrong, and as great as he is playing now, he seems to be getting better and better every day. I can't wait to see what he will be doing by the end of the season!
I've been singing his praises for weeks. He's got it all. I agree that he could lead off. With the .350 BA over the last two months, I think he can get on base...but don't ask him to steal. You'd think that someone with his speed and athleticism would be better than 3 for 7.
I don't think Alexei was ever really trained on stealing bases, most of his caught stealings have come from pick-offs, he gets a huge lead and he definitely has the speed, he just doesn't run.