Rookie of the Year races

2015 has been another great year for the rookie. Many have thrived in their first season and are up for recognition for their performances. Here is a list of the top four AL and top three NL rookies for Rookie of the Year voting.

American League

1. Carlos Correa – Shortstop – Houston Astros

2015 Stats: 94 Games, .281 Average, 21 Home runs, 22 Doubles, 61 RBIs, 12 Stolen Bases

When Carlos made his debut on Jun. 8 of this year, many thought he would just be up to fill in for the injured Jed Lowrie. Correa has flourished on the field and in the batter’s box, making the case to the Astros that he is indeed ready for this. Only 20 years old, Correa plays with a maturity of a veteran and does everything the right way. He has thrived producing a .281 batting average, 21 home runs and 61 runs batted in, and has been a catalyst in the Astros' playoff push.

2. Miguel Sano – Third Baseman – Minnesota Twins

2015 Stats: 74 games, .275 Average, 17 Home runs, 17 Doubles, 51 RBIs, .388 OBP

Although Sano has played the least number of games of the four AL candidates on this list, he has made the same impact as the others. Sano debuted on Jul. 2, and began hitting for a decent average from the word go. It was August when his power really showed, hitting nine long balls in 28 games. He has 2/3^rds the at bats of Correa, but is almost matching him in home runs and RBIs. Sano will be a big part of the Twins' playoff push.

3. Francisco Lindor – Shortstop – Cleveland Indians

2015 Stats: 93 Games, .319 Average, 11 Home runs, 21 Doubles, four Triples, 49 RBIs, nine Stolen Bases

Lindor has been a highly touted prospect for years and has shown why he has the chance to be an impact big league player. The switch hitting middle infielder has hit .319 over 93 games, and has shown some pop in his bat as well, totaling 36 extra-base hits. His defense has been solid, but it will continue to get better as he realizes more and more that he belongs at the big league level. With Jason Kipnis and Lindor up the middle, the future is bright for the Indians.

4. Billy Burns – Center Fielder – Oakland Athletics

2015 Stats: 121 Games, .297 Average, five Home runs, 18 Doubles, nine Triples, 42 RBIs, 26 Stolen Bases

Burns has the largest sample size of the four AL players on this list, and has shown tremendous consistency at the plate. The Atlanta native and Mercer Alum has really helped ease the burden for  A’s fans in what has been a disappointing 2015 campaign. It was too bad that he had some hamstring issues near the end of the season that slowed him down, or else we could've seen him steal 30 plus bases. Overall has wowed on the bases and in the field, and doesn’t get the attention he deserves. He will be fun to watch on A’s teams down the road.

National League

1. Kris Bryant – Third Baseman – Chicago Cubs

2015 Stats: 146 Games, .281 Average, 26 Home runs, 31 Doubles, 99 RBIs, 13 Stolen Bases

When Kris didn’t make the team out of Spring Training, fans scratched their heads, blaming ownership that it was only to keep him under another year of control (MLB Service Clock Rules). Well 10 games into the season, Bryant forced his way up and never looked back. The 6’5” Bryant is first among all rookies in home runs (26), RBIs (99), runs (86), and 5^th in stolen bases (12). He has been a force in the middle of the Cubs’ line-up that already features first baseman Anthony Rizzo. Without Bryant, the Cubs don't clinch a playoff spot.

2. Matt Duffy – Third Baseman – San Francisco Giants

2015 Stats: 143 Games, .298 Average, 11 Home runs, 28 Doubles, 74 RBIs, 11/0 SB/CS

Pablo Sandoval who? That is the effect Matt Duffy has had on the Giants all year, smoothly transitioning in to replace the beloved Pablo Sandoval who left via free agency. Duffy has excelled against big league pitching as seen by his .298 average. Manager Bruce Bochy has even penciled in Duffy in the 3^rd spot in a line-up filled with the likes of Buster Posey, Hunter Pence, and Brandon Belt. Duffy helped carry this Giants team for a while, but even though the Giants don't seem to be in the hunt for a playoff spot, he has had a terrific year worth celebrating.

3. Jung Ho Kang – Third Baseman – Pittsburgh Pirates

2015 Stats: 126 Games, .287 Average, 15 Home runs, 24 Doubles, 58 RBIs, .355 OBP

Not too many were sure how the Korean import Kang would fare adjusting to America, but he has thrived in the opportunities he has been given. His versatility has allowed his bat to be in the lineup, most recently filling in at third for the injured Josh Harrison. Kang got off to a rough start, but really turned it on in the month of July when he won NL Rookie of the Month honors hitting .379 with eight doubles and nine RBIs. A takeout slide by Chris Coghlan ended his season prematurely, but that shouldn’t compromise his vote total. Kang, just like the Pirates have been under the radar, but are both can’t miss stories of 2015. 

The underrated NL Rookie of the Year candidates

It seems like the young talent just keeps coming. As of Aug. 7, there are 21 rookie position players and 18 rookie pitchers who are first year eligible in the National League. There is no clear cut rookie of the year, and you can make a case for each of them. The stat categories are led by many different candidates. Matt Duffy currently leads all rookies with a .309 average, Joc Pederson leads with 21 home runs and Chicago Cubs rookie third baseman Kris Bryant is the leader in RBIs, with 61. This just makes the vote even harder. What is impressive too, is that most of these rookies are performing in the middle of pennant races. On the mound, Giants' righty Chris Heston, and Mets' Noah Syndergaard have both put up strong numbers and seem to be the two pitching favorites. Milwaukee's Taylor Jungmann has also impressed in his 11 starts this year.
Although Bryant and Pederson have received the most hype, they have struggled mightily since the All-Star break. Fans need to be exposed to the other rookies, so that the other rookies can receive recognition for their solid campaigns. Here are three very underrated rookies who have put up very good numbers, and make good cases to win the NL Rookie of the Year Award.

Matt Duffy - 3B - San Francisco Giants

Duffy has been one of the more quiet rookie performers this year. He doesn't get the same attention as Bryant, or Pederson, but he has definitely been as good or better. Remember just this past offseason marked the departure of Pablo Sandoval, and many were wondering who could replace the beloved third baseman. The Giants first tried veteran Casey McGehee, but after that didn't work out, they gave the job full time to Duffy, who began to stand out from the beginning. Through his first 95 games, Duffy has batted .309 (1st among rookies) with 108 hits (1st), nine home runs (7th) and 51 RBIs (2nd). Duffy has always been a high average hitter, hitting .332 at Double-A Richmond last year, but the power has only developed recently. In his college career at Long Beach State, Duffy didn't hit a single home run, but has hit nine in the big leagues this year. His run production has allowed manager Bruce Bochy to deepen his lineup, penciling in Duffy to the third spot on a Giants team that already features Buster Posey, Hunter Pence and Brandon Belt in the middle of the order. Duffy has definitely made an impact in San Francisco, and he should not be overlooked in the NL ROY race.

Randal Grichuk - OF - St. Louis Cardinals

Many may not know that Grichuk was taken by the Angels 24th overall in the 2009 MLB First Year Player Draft, the pick before reigning AL MVP Mike Trout. Although he didn't get to the big leagues as fast as Trout, Grichuk is a very talented outfielder with solid tools across the board. He is 5th in average (.288), 2nd in doubles (20), 1st in triples (seven) and 6th in RBIs (40). He, like Duffy, has performed on a playoff contending team, and has filled a huge hole in the lineup with Matt Holliday down with a quad injury. He is projected to finish with around 20 home runs (13 at the moment), and has been a big part of the Cardinals. Grichuk consistently hits the ball hard as he ranks 4th in average launch speed (94.7 mph), behind only Giancarlo Stanton (98.7 mph), Kyle Schwarber (96.8 mph), and Miguel Cabrera (94.8 mph). The harder the ball is put in play, the more good things happen for a hitter. Look for Grichuk down the stretch as he looks to continue to help the Cardinals to the playoffs and beyond.

Odubel Herrera - CF - Philadelphia Phillies

Who? That is what most say when they hear the name of this 23 year old rookie outfielder. After being selected by the Phillies from the Rangers in this past Rule 5 Draft, Herrera had a chip on his shoulder, but also an opportunity to play in the big leagues. He has made most of the opportunity so far, hitting .288 with five home runs and 29 RBIs. He currently leads NL rookies with 22 doubles, is 5th in runs with 41 and 3rd in hits with 90. Herrera has also made a nice adjustment to the outfield after being a middle infielder for most of his professional career. Although the Phillies are not contending in a playoff race, Herrera is making his case that he should be in the future plans of the Phillies. He could turn out to be a Shane Victorino like story, as Victorino was also a Rule 5 Draft pick. Paired with Maikel Franco (who has put up a stellar rookie campaign so far.), Cody Asche, and Cesar Hernandez, the Phillies have some nice young pieces moving into the future, and hopes that Herrera will roaming center field in the years to come.

Winners of the trade deadline

This was one of the more memorable trade deadlines of recent years. Big prospects were moved as well as All-Star bats and front line starters. The trade season began with Scott Kazmir being dealt to the Astros on Jul. 23 and ended with the Mets acquiring the power bat of Yoenis Cespedes in the final minutes leading up to the deadline. Most of the teams that needed to get something done, got something done. Many of these deals will impact the already tight races across the league and only time will tell if these deals will have paid off. Here is a look at the winners of this years trading deadline.

Winners

1. Toronto Blue Jays
This is a no brainer. When you acquire the best shortstop in the game in Troy Tulowitzki, an ace in David Price, and fill a few holes with Ben Revere and Mark Lowe, you did something right. In his first eight games with the team, Tulowitzki has gone 8 for 28 with two home runs and five RBIs, while getting on-base at a .412 clip. He has also dazzled defensively making numerous difficult plays, and showing Toronto why he is the best all around shortstop in the game. Price was also brilliant in his debut with the Jays, pitching eight innings, while surrendering only three hits and one earned run in a win over the Minnesota Twins. He will be a key stopper down the stretch, and will also help all of the pitchers around him get better. Alex Anthopoulos did a terrific job of making moves this year, something he didn't do last year and was highly criticized for. Now the Blue Jays have an even more potent offense, and pitching to support the attack. There is also a buzz around the ballpark that hasn't been there in a while. Hopefully they can party like its 1992 and 1993.Thumbs up to the Jays front office for the creativity and the names that they brought in.

2. Houston Astros
The Astros made a statement from the beginning that they believe that this is their year by acquiring Kazmir. Kazmir has been brilliant in his last seven starts going 2-2 with a 0.96 ERA. Imagine in a postseason series having to face Dallas Keuchel and Kazmir back to back. They wouldn't be done there as they would also acquire outfielder Carlos Gomez from the Brewers. Gomez is a great addition as he brings the energy of George Springer, who is currently on the DL. Hopefully there is no issue with his hip and he performs like the 2014 version of himself. When healthy, he is one of the best power, speed, and defense combos in the game today. The Astros also received a good arm in Mike Fiers in the Gomez trade, to solidify the back end of the young rotation. It was a great job by the Astros to realize that they were ahead of schedule, and to go for it now.

3. New York Mets
What was thought, wasn't. I am referring to the infamous trade that didn't happen of Carlos Gomez to the Mets for Wilmer Flores and Zack Wheeler. At first, it looked like this would be another dwelling point for New York fans, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Flores would hit a walk-off solo home run to push the Mets past the Nationals just a day after he was thought to be traded. The Mets would end up trading for Cespedes, who provides a much needed impact bat in what was an anemic offense. A trade that went really under the radar though, was for utility man Kelly Johnson, and Juan Uribe. Both are great clubhouse presences and bring a winning attitude to the team. When the trade was made, Lucas Duda asked Terry Collins if Johnson was here to play first. Collins basically responded that how you play will determine that. Duda would go on to win player of the week ending August 3rd, as he went 9 for 19 with seven home runs from Jul. 26 to Aug. 3. Dating back to the Jul. 25, Duda has nine home runs in that span. It is safe to say that this trade lit a fire under Duda, which significantly helps this offense. The atmosphere of Citi Field has also changed, evident in the weekend series that saw the Mets sweep the Nationals. The fans are behind this team and are very alive in the stadium. They too will be a key cog in this postseason hunt for the Mets. The Mets went from a cute story, to a contender in the matter of days, look out for them as they look to win the division over the disappointing Nationals.

4. Texas Rangers
No, they didn't make a flurry of moves, but they did make the big one, acquiring Cole Hamels from the Phillies. This was a great move for now and in the future as next year Hamels and Darvish will be at the top of their rotation. The Rangers have also made a push recently, and Hamels could put them over the hump. As of Aug. 6, the Rangers are five games back in the division, and two games back of an AL Wild Card spot. If their offense keeps firing, and the pitching can be consistent, this may be a very dangerous playoff team, especially with a proven postseason pitcher like Hamels.

It's that time of year again

It's that time of year again, when the rumors begin to pick up, and players begin to change uniforms. All 30 clubs will have to decide if they are buyers or sellers at the deadline, but this is not as easy as in years past. Ever since the expansion of the 2nd Wild Card, more and more teams are in it as of Jul. 31. As of Jul. 20, 13 teams are either leading their division or within five games of 1st. 11 teams are within 5.5 games of a wild card spot. This can put pressure on a team to make a move in order to contend, even if they are not realistically in the race. There are some big names that could be on the move, and many needs that have to be filled.

Definite Sellers

The Reds and Phillies are two teams who are definite sellers, and rumors have already begun to swirl around them. Both of them have lock down closers to trade as well as a front line starter. Aroldis Chapman’s name has already come up, and the Nationals, Blue Jays, and even the Dodgers would make sense for the powerful lefty. Jonathan Papelbon of the Phillies is a very intriguing player as many teams seem hesitant because of the animosity he creates in a clubhouse. So far it seems that the Blue Jays are still a possible target. The Brewers are another team that will likely be sellers at the deadline. They have some pieces that will fit nicely on contending teams. Francisco Rodriguez, Carlos Gomez, Jean Segura, Gerardo Parra and even Ryan Braun all seem to be expendable, but only for the right price. The Rockies should also be sellers, but it will hinge on whether they will trade Troy Tulowitzki or not. Billy Beane should also be busy this trade deadline, but not in the way he has in the past. After trading away many top prospects to get starter Jeff Samardzija last year, the A’s need to get back some more major league ready talent, and restock for 2016. Ben Zobrist as well as Scott Kazmir are the two most likely be dealt.

Let's Make a Deal

Here are a few possible scenarios that could go down this trade deadline...

Chapman to the Nationals for A.J. Cole and Trea Turner.

Steep price? Yes, but no one compares to Chapman in the 'pen, who by the way just became the fastest pitcher to 500 strikeouts. The Nationals would be trading from an area of surplus, pitching, and an area that is a question mark past this year (shortstop). If they are still unsure about shortstop for the future, then we could see Joe Ross, or even Tanner Roark go to the Reds instead of Trea Turner.

Johnny Cueto and Skip Schumaker to the Houston Astros for Mark Appel, Colin Moran, and Brett Phillips.

The Astros would be getting a frontline starter as well as a veteran 4^th outfielder. Mark Appel hasn’t developed as planned, so the Astros will be less hesitant than before in giving him up. Their outfield will be ok with dealing Brett Phillips as they will have Preston Tucker, Jake Marisnick, and Domingo Santana as their future outfield. The Reds on the other hand could have a replacement to Jay Bruce in Phillips, and will get back a future top to middle rotation guy in Appel.

Papelbon to the Blue Jays for Devon Travis and Jeff Hoffman

The Phillies will be landing a quality second baseman in Devon Travis and a good rotation arm in Jeff Hoffman. The Phillies need to make sure that they get the most that they can though as they have gotten minimal return in years past. The Blue Jays on the other hand, will be getting a lock down closer. This is their year to go for it. They have a powerhouse offense that leads the bigs in runs (by 80, with 498), but its been their pitching that has let them down. Going for Papelbon would definitely make a statement to the AL East as well as the players. Last year Alex Anthopoulos came under a lot of criticism for not making a deal, but he learned his lesson, and won't make the same mistake.

Cole Hamels to the Dodgers for Corey Seager, Jose De Leon, and Zach Lee.

The Dodgers will have to give in and give up one of the big three (Joc Pederson, Julio Urias, Corey Seager). Although they will have to give up a lot for Cole Hamels, it won’t be as much because they will most likely be paying some of his contract.

Gomez to the Mets for Steven Matz and Gavin Cecchini -- or -- Gomez and Parra for Steven Matz, Dominic Smith, and Akeel Morris.

Steven Matz would be the center piece that the Brewers would want, and Cecchini could also be future big leaguers. Another player that could be seen on the move in this deal is the first base prospect Dominic Smith. Smith will really only be a first baseman, so with Lucas Duda solidifying his case as an everyday player, Smith will be expendable. The Mets desperately need offense, and Carlos Gomez gives them a little bit of everything.

Ben Zobrist to the Yankees for Rob Refsnyder and Ian Clarkin.

The A’s will be getting back two mid-tier prospects, but two future big leaguers at the least. Rob Refsnyder even made his debut this year and the A’s can plug him straight into the lineup.

It is always fun to throw ideas out there, but these trades could be a possibility based on the needs and wants of each team. Some may be more outrageous than others, but we’ve seen crazier things happen at the trade deadline in years past. Expect this deadline to be no less exciting than the last.

Timing is everything

For years, the MLB Home Run Derby was marked by 10 outs, 3 rounds, and the famous Gold Ball at 9 outs. It used to be 15 to 30 minute rounds with guys taking 5 pitches in a row, only to launch a measly 2 home runs. Players would even leave before it was over, bored by the slow pace, and wanting to get that sleep they have been deprived of for months.



Image courtesy of MLB.com

2015 brought a dramatic change to the Gillette Home Run Derby. The new format brought a fast paced approach that kept everyone on the edge of their seats. Here is a look at some of the changes.

The first major change was adding a clock to the rounds. Due to the threat of rain, the rounds were shortened from 5 to 4 minutes, but 4 proved to be a great time. The 4 minute clock also added excitement and dramatics, as many rounds came down to the wire. Fans held their breath as the clock ticked down, and it also gave the hitters a sense of urgency. In the fast paced world we live in today, the timed rounds proved to be an exciting twist. The timeout also proved to be a valuable, but controlled break as it let players take a breather, without taking away excitement.

As a result of the timed rounds, more home runs were hit this year over previous years. 2014 saw around 80 baseballs fly into the stands as souvenirs, while almost double that amount, 159, ended up over the wall in 2015. More home runs hit equals more excitement. The amount of home runs hit per round was increased because of the new formatting. Anthony Rizzo had the lowest 1 round total of 8. In the 4 rounds of the 2014 derby, only 2 rounds saw a player hit more than 8 home runs.

Another change was the set brackets. Every player would be seeded based on the number of home runs they had hit during the regular season leading up to the break. Advancing was solely dependent on hitting more than your opponent in the bracket. The amount to beat was set there and then, instead of having to wait for everyone to hit to know the number to beat. This also added more of a head to head feel than in recent years.

Overall, the changes proved to be effective in captivating fans, and bringing a breath of fresh air to the oft drug out derby. There was definitely more of a buzz around the derby this year, and although many were skeptical about the new format, MLB did a great job of organizing and constructing it to work smoothly. The MLB deserves a big thumbs up for revamping the format.

All-Star mess

     For years, fans have been able to vote in their favorite players to the MLB All-Star Game. Many times, the most popular players of a team would dominate the voting, and the lower tier players wouldn’t receive as many votes. Well we have reached a new point in voting. As of Jun. 15, eight of the nine AL spots are being occupied by Kansas City Royals. Now, you have to give it to the Royals' fans for getting behind their team, but some of these totals are outliers. We all need to remember that All-Star voting is for the players having the best years, not just trying to vote a whole team on. Now, some of the Royals' players have earned it, but when Omar Infante is hitting .229 with zero home runs and a .236 OBP and is leading in second base voting over Jason Kipnis, that is where it needs to stop. We need to reward deserving players, and celebrate their success.

Here are the players who lead voting at each position:

Catcher
1. Salvador Perez, Royals: 7,202,292
2. Stephen Vogt, A's: 3,260,864
3. Russell Martin, Blue Jays: 2,225,889

First Base
1. Eric Hosmer, Royals: 5,777,363
2. Miguel Cabrera, Tigers: 5,301,216
3. Prince Fielder, Rangers: 1,794,589

Second Base
1. Omar Infante, Royals: 4,518,765
2. Jose Altuve, Astros: 4,209,702
3. Jason Kipnis, Indians: 1,859,756

Third Base
1. Mike Moustakas, Royals: 6,505,258
2. Josh Donaldson, Blue Jays: 4,880,315
3. Nick Castellanos, Tigers: 923,589

Shortstop
1. Alcides Escobar, Royals: 6,332,981
2. Jose Iglesias, Tigers: 3,491,530
3. Jose Reyes, Blue Jays: 1,649,076
4. Marcus Semien, A's: 1,132,210
5. Jed Lowrie, Astros: 978,177

Outfield
1. Lorenzo Cain, Royals: 6,611,781
2. Mike Trout, Angels: 5,944,068
3. Alex Gordon, Royals: 5,581,096
4. Alex Rios, Royals: 3,952,551
5. Adam Jones, Orioles: 3,248,559
6. Yoenis Cespedes, Tigers: 3,165,784

Designated Hitter

1. Kendrys Morales, Royals: 5,422,250
2. Nelson Cruz, Mariners: 4,873,273
3. Edwin Encarnacion, Blue Jays: 1,430,262

*Voting Totals Courtesy of MLB.com as of Jun. 15, 2015.

Here is who I think deserves the All- Star Nod:

Catcher- Stephen Vogt: Oakland A’s

Vogt has burst onto the scene this year and has taken over the starting job in Oakland. He first became famous for his referee skit on the MLB Network show, Intentional Talk, but is now letting his playing do the whistle blowing. He currently leads MLB catchers in home runs (13), RBIs (50), Walks (36), OBP (.382), SLG (.537) and OPS (.918). Stats like this deserve an All-Star appearance.

First Base- Miguel Cabrera: Detroit Tigers

As a perennial All-Star, Cabrera continues to put up silly good numbers. He leads AL first baseman in home runs (15), RBIs (51), average (.345), OBP (.447) and is second in hits (82), and doubles (13). This is just a special player who usually dominates the ballot. If this game is going to count for home field advantage, Cabrera needs to be in that lineup.

Second Base- Jason Kipnis: Cleveland Indians

After a disappointing 2014, Kipnis has turned it back on in 2015. He has even overcome a tough start to the season as he hit only .213 in April. Then came May in which he hit .429 and collected 51 hits, 15 of which being doubles. As it currently stands, Kipnis leads AL second baseman in hits (89) and average (.341), and is second in stolen bases (10) and doubles (20). This year is showing that his terrific 2013 campaign was not a fluke.

Third Base- Josh Donaldson: Toronto Blue Jays

An offseason trade saw Donaldson shipped to the powerful Blue Jay Line-up. He has showed no signs of having trouble becoming acclimated with the team. He leads AL third baseman in home runs (17), RBIs (46), doubles (17), hits (83) and is second in average (.304). Donaldson has not disappointed Blue Jays' fans, and should be starting in Cincinnati on Jul. 14.

Shortstop- Jose Iglesias: Detroit Tigers

I could’ve gone a few ways here, but Jose just beat out Alcides Escobar in my vote. Although he doesn’t qualify in the average and OBP departments because of fewer at-bats, Iglesias has an average of .328 with an OBP of .377. He has also wowed with his defensive wizardry, and would be a ton of fun to watch in the Midsummer Classic.

Outfield

Mike Trout: Los Angeles Angels

The only player of my picks actually in line for a spot on the team, Trout just keeps putting up numbers. It wouldn’t be an All-Star game without Trout. He is continuing the power he showed last year by hitting 18 home runs thus far. He also has a .299 average with 41 RBIs and 8 stolen bases. The five-tool outfielder also shines on the big stage and we will see him in Cincy.

Michael Brantley: Cleveland Indians

Although Brantley’s numbers don’t dominate in the home run department, he is in the top five in most major offensive categories. He has put up a very good .305 average with 21 doubles (1^st in AL) and 35 RBIs. He also has more walks, 29, than strike outs, 17. He has been a staple in the Indians' lineup and has taken off since the beginning of 2014.

Adam Jones: Baltimore Orioles

This was a tough choice as there are too many deserving outfielders. Jones, though, has great numbers across the board, .305, 10 home runs, 35 RBIs. He is third among AL outfielders in hits with 73, and really loves the spotlight. He is deserving of a 5^th All-Star appearance.

Designated Hitter- Nelson Cruz: Seattle Mariners

This is a no brainer… Cruz is 2^nd in the AL with 18 home runs, and has put up a very good average (.315) and OBP (.379). Most importantly he has continued his power threat at the plate and with the power pitching the NL offers, we’d love to see Cruz take his hacks and challenge them.

Just missed:

1B Prince Fielder (TEX): .344, 11 HR, 47 RBI

1B Albert Pujols (LAA): .273, 20 HR, 42 RBI

2B Dustin Pedroia (BOS): .307, 9 HR, 27 RBI

2B Jose Altuve (HOU): .287, 17 SB, 28 RBI

3B Mike Moustakas (KC): .321, 6 HR, 25 RBI

3B Manny Machado (BAL): .292, 14 HR, 34 RBI

OF Yoenis Cespedes (DET): .301, 9 HR, 35 RBI

OF Josh Reddick (OAK): .291, 10 HR, 41 RBI

OF Jose Bautista (TOR): .251, 13 HR, 44 RBI

DH Kendrys Morales (KC): .286, 7 HR, 43 RBI

DH Alex Rodriguez (NYY): .277, 13 HR, 34 RBI

"Houston, we have a problem... we're actually good this year."

          For years, the Houston Astros have been the doormat of Major League Baseball, losing 100 games in three of the past four seasons while not even reaching .500 since their 2008 campaign which saw them go 86-75. The organization has been preaching about "The Process" and have been trying to get everyone to buy in. They have built a strong farm system through numerous trades and the draft, and it has started to bare the fruit needed to contend.

As of Jun. 12 2015, the Astros have accrued a record of 35-27 while leading the talent filled AL West. Once deemed the 2017 World Series Champions by Sports Illustrated, the Astros may fulfill that prophecy a few years early. They are led by consistent pitching that has posted a team ERA of 3.61, 3rd best in the AL. The rotation has been led by Dallas Keuchel who has picked up where he left off in 2014. Through his first 13 starts, Keuchel is 7-2 with a 1.90 ERA, and if he keeps this up, we can expect to see him in Cincinnati for the midsummer classic in July. Lance McCullers has also jumped onto the scene going 2-1 with a 2.32 ERA through his first five starts.

One of the biggest improvements though, has been the bullpen. 2014 was a struggle for the pen as they were last in bullpen ERA, 4.80, and tied 28th in saves with 31. They let many games slip away in the late innings and never had a defined closer. 2015 is a complete turn around. To address this need, general manager Jeff Luhnow signed Pat Neshek and Luke Gregerson to serve as veteran anchors in the bullpen. Both have done their job well as Gregerson has saved 15 of 17 games while Neshek has posted a 2.82 ERA while striking out 20 compared to two walks. Will Harris has also been a reliable option as he has put up a 0.94 ERA while striking out 33 in 28 2/3 innings.

On the other side of the ball, the Astros have a very different lineup than in years past. What used to be considered a Triple-A lineup is now a force to be reckoned with. Led by Evan Gattis (12 HR, 39 RBIs), George Springer (.255, 10 HR, 13 SB) , and Jose Altuve (.290, five HR, 17 SB) , the Astros are at the top of many offensive categories. They are 1st in home runs (83), 3rd in stolen bases (50) and 8th in Walks (83). The home run hitting offense does have a downside though as they are 29th in batting average (.235), 24th in OBP (.302) and have the second most strikeouts in the majors behind the Chicago Cubs (571). Their offense will have to be more consistent to contend, but if the pitching keeps it up, they can power their way to winning games. Also unlike the 2014 Atlanta Braves, who did not have success with the all or nothing offense, the Astros have speed on the team to help mix the offensive attack.

Overall, the Astros are a completely different team than in the previous four years. They have pitching, a formidable line-up and a veteran presence that can lead them to contend for a division title in what has so far been a disappointing AL West.