Mookie Betts
The latest ballot update showed Mookie Betts falling to sixth among AL outfielders, which is an atrocity to say the least.
The 24-year old hasn’t put up the monster numbers at the plate that made him the runner-up for the MVP award last year, but his production is nothing to scoff at. He’s leading the league in doubles and on pace for another 20 homer/20 steal season. Betts is third in the league among outfielders in hits and top-10 in slugging and OPS.
He’s also a virtual lock to repeat as the Gold Glove winner in right field. Betts leads the majors at all positions with 17 defensive runs saved and has the best range of any right fielder.
The 3.6 WAR Betts has accumulated this season is the second highest among AL outfielders and fourth most among position players. It feels like we haven’t seen an extended hot streak from Betts, yet he’s still in the MVP conversation!
There’s a chance that a late surge could push Betts into a starting spot. A more likely scenario is that he’ll be chosen as the replacement for the injured Mike Trout, who currently sits second on the ballot among outfielders. Regardless of whether or not he starts, we can bet on Mookie making the team.