Up: Rafael Devers
Rafael Devers, on the downside of this list just last month, has turned things around in a big way. In May, Devers recorded an anemic .212 batting average and a disheartening .672 OPS. Though his raw talent remained undeniable, his adjustment to the big leagues was, at times, painful to watch.
In June, Devers proved the organization was right to have patience. His five home runs on the month matched his output from May, but he raised his RBI total from seven to 18. He finished June with an .815 OPS and a .284 batting average, and capped the month with a historic performance. On the 30th facing the New York Yankees, Devers became the youngest player since at least 1908 to go 5-5 with a grand slam.
He also drastically improved his fielding in June. He still has a miscue every now and then, but routine plays finally started to look routine for him, and he had some truly outstanding moments at the hot corner. One month does not make a career, of course, but June gave us a glimpse of what Devers might one day be. The future is bright for the young slugger.