Early canidate for rookie of the year?

[GoWaitInTheCar]

Who's everyone pick for MLB Rookie Of The Year?

I'm not to sure of my pick yet. Help me sort out my confusion..

[GoWaitInTheCar]

I'm not even sure who to go with, though it's early, I just want to see what people are thinking going into the season.

[Brownpants06]

Uh, what sport? Baseball? Pff. That's not a sport.

[FondestMemory]

vernon davis and aj hawk.

unless you're not talking about the nfl, then i withdraw my last remark and replace it with an 'i have no idea.'

[GoWaitInTheCar]

Uh, what sport? Baseball? Pff. That's not a sport.

Oh my.. I guess I didn't realize I never put what sport.

I am talking Baseball, yes.

[Flags of Dawn]

im hoping prince fielder.

[GoWaitInTheCar]

vernon davis and aj hawk.

unless you're not talking about the nfl, then i withdraw my last remark and replace it with an 'i have no idea.'

Yeah, I am talking MLB, my bad. I didn't realize I didn't put it in the forum title.

[GoWaitInTheCar]

robbie earl...

what sport are we talking about.

Baseball.

[bigmike]

vernon davis and aj hawk.

unless you're not talking about the nfl, then i withdraw my last remark and replace it with an 'i have no idea.'
whether he's talking about the nfl or not, that's what we'll turn this into.

i initially think vernon davis, but alex smith is throwing to him.... eh.

I think Tony Scheffler could have a good to great season for a Rookie TE from a mid-major football program, with the Denver Broncos. he'll be replacing Jeb Putzier and is as athletic a TE as there is. good hands, speed to stretch the middle of the field. he's no vernon davis, however, jake plummer > Alex smith.

that said Offensive ROY = Matt Leinart (how could he not succeed with those WR's and Edge out of the backfield catching passes)

Defensive ROY = AJ Hawk is the obvious pick, but i'm going to go with Bobby Carpenter in Dallas.

[bigmike]

Yeah, I am talking MLB, my bad. I didn't realize I didn't put it in the forum title.
damn. well then for baseball i'm really hoping Justin Verlander goes like 20-8 with 250+ K's. that'd be nice :)

[Emopunkthrice]

NL- I was pulling for Hermida or Fielder
Al-I'm pulling for Kinsler or Verlander

[Broken Parachute]

Josh Willingham for the NL.
Chris Ray for the AL.

[GoWaitInTheCar]

NL- I was pulling for Hermida or Fielder
Al-I'm pulling for Kinsler or Verlander

I like that Fielder pick.

[GoWaitInTheCar]

damn. well then for baseball i'm really hoping Justin Verlander goes like 20-8 with 250+ K's. that'd be nice :)

If he keeps playing the way he is, your comment may not be so far fetched.

[GoWaitInTheCar]

Kinsler in The AL? Hmm..

I never thought about that one, but now that you have. I will as well.

[bigmike]

If he keeps playing the way he is, your comment may not be so far fetched.
yeah. the teams playing above their potential right now. he's got 250+ K potential stuff, but he's actually a pretty efficient pitcher and only goes for the strikeout when he really needs it. he's content to get groundouts/popouts on the first pitch, which is a very good sign.

[GoWaitInTheCar]

yeah. the teams playing above their potential right now. he's got 250+ K potential stuff, but he's actually a pretty efficient pitcher and only goes for the strikeout when he really needs it. he's content to get groundouts/popouts on the first pitch, which is a very good sign.

Yeah, I like his style. You can tell he loves the game and doesn't try to put on a show.

[Yankees' #1 Fan]

uh... papelbon so far would have to be front runner
10/10 saves with a 0.00 ERA

[ThriftWhore]

uh... papelbon so far would have to be front runner
10/10 saves with a 0.00 ERA
If he continues on like this, he has a chance to be.

Though, I think Justin Verlander for the AL and Cecil Fielder for the NL.

[bigmike]

nah, i would like for verlander to win it, but you can't argue with papelbon's numbers.

[ThriftWhore]

nah, i would like for verlander to win it, but you can't argue with papelbon's numbers.
Yeah, but I think Verlander will be better over the course of the season, I don't feel Papelbon can keep this up, especially once the Yankee bats get hot in the summer as they always do.

We'll see though, to steal a line from Chris Berman, That's why they play the games.

[bigmike]

Yeah, but I think Verlander will be better over the course of the season, I don't feel Papelbon can keep this up, especially once the Yankee bats get hot in the summer as they always do.
yes, but this is for right now. i think that's implied by 'early candidate for ROY'. right now he's the al ROY, not verlander. and i still don't think verlander will win it over the course of the year.

[GoWaitInTheCar]

As I said, it's way to early to tell. But now that I look at it..

NL- Fielder
AL- Verlander

[Yankees' #1 Fan]

some people in this forum are fucking retarded, who cares about what the chances are over the rest of the season, you stated early candidate, so i answered.

[ThriftWhore]

So, I shared my opinion that over the rest of the year I think it could be Verlander, even if I misunderstood the question it's still me stating how I feel. I wasn't challenging your opinion, just stating mine.

[mikeford]

prince fielder was leading the NL in hits when i last checked (thursday)... if he keeps it up hes a lock for NL ROY

AL is wide open but verlander looks good early and chris ray has been impressive in the closer role for baltimore.

[mikeford]

papelbon is not a rookie anymore. im pretty sure he played enough last season to use up his rookie eligibility.

[Yankees' #1 Fan]

he is eligible for the ROY

[mikeford]

alright, ESPN lists papelbon as a rookie, so i change my vote to him for the AL.

[wesgemm08]

Chris Ray

[NetNerdsRevenge]

Yeah, but I think Verlander will be better over the course of the season, I don't feel Papelbon can keep this up, especially once the Yankee bats get hot in the summer as they always do.

We'll see though, to steal a line from Chris Berman, That's why they play the games.
What do the Yankees have to do with Papelbon's chances? nothing. They'll face each other 19 times, Papelbon getting in on half of these. And, he'll probably get the save more than half the times he faces them. That is, if he is the closer for the whole year.

And what has Verlander done so far? A 2/1 BB/K rate and a 3.52 ERA?

Papelbon has the best chance right now in the AL

[bigmike]

What do the Yankees have to do with Papelbon's chances? nothing. They'll face each other 19 times, Papelbon getting in on half of these. And, he'll probably get the save more than half the times he faces them. That is, if he is the closer for the whole year.

And what has Verlander done so far? A 2/1 BB/K rate and a 3.52 ERA?

Papelbon has the best chance right now in the AL
As a tiger fan, and someone who's watched verlanders starts, i agree whole heartedly.

[yeat182]

jonathan papplebon

[ImpulZe]

MLB NL ROOKIE OF THE YEAR>......




PRINCE FIELDER!!!!


Ladys and Gentleman the Brewers have Talent...

and this guy makes you excited.

Secong in hits as of now, and has more power than he has shown

[fluke182]

whether he's talking about the nfl or not, that's what we'll turn this into.

i initially think vernon davis, but alex smith is throwing to him.... eh.

I think Tony Scheffler could have a good to great season for a Rookie TE from a mid-major football program, with the Denver Broncos. he'll be replacing Jeb Putzier and is as athletic a TE as there is. good hands, speed to stretch the middle of the field. he's no vernon davis, however, jake plummer > Alex smith.

that said Offensive ROY = Matt Leinart (how could he not succeed with those WR's and Edge out of the backfield catching passes)

Defensive ROY = AJ Hawk is the obvious pick, but i'm going to go with Bobby Carpenter in Dallas.
Leinart could not succeed by not starting, which is what he is doing. I vote Chad Jackson for Rookie of the Year, Offensive.

Baseball, I'm going to with Prince Fielder (Duh) and Verlander, although is he a rookie for sure? He pitched last year, I was wondering if he still is a rookie technically.

[GoWaitInTheCar]

MLB NL ROOKIE OF THE YEAR>......




PRINCE FIELDER!!!!


Ladys and Gentleman the Brewers have Talent...

and this guy makes you excited.

Secong in hits as of now, and has more power than he has shown


Yeah, if he pans out he'll be what Jason Bay is to The Pirates. The one talented player that will stay in the starting lineup without being traded by the deadline or released.

[bigmike]

Leinart could not succeed by not starting, which is what he is doing. I vote Chad Jackson for Rookie of the Year, Offensive.

Baseball, I'm going to with Prince Fielder (Duh) and Verlander, although is he a rookie for sure? He pitched last year, I was wondering if he still is a rookie technically.
well, yeah i guess that would hinder leinarts chances. but i don't see warner starting more than 4 or 5 games.

and verlander's still a rookie, i'm pretty sure. i think he only made 3 or 4 starts last year.

[Emopunkthrice]

well, yeah i guess that would hinder leinarts chances. but i don't see warner starting more than 4 or 5 games.

and verlander's still a rookie, i'm pretty sure. i think he only made 3 or 4 starts last year.
yeah he is, he didn't give up his elgibility, I'm really pulling for Kinsler because he's playing at such a easy field.

[GoWaitInTheCar]

yeah he is, he didn't give up his elgibility, I'm really pulling for Kinsler because he's playing at such a easy field.

I never really thought about that. It's a very good point.

[yeat182]

papplebon is leading so far, he just won rookie of the month.

[Jesse2]

I don't feel Papelbon can keep this up, especially once the Yankee bats get hot in the summer as they always do.

I'm sure at some point in the season the Yankees' bats will hurt him, but nothing about Papelbon to this point makes me think it's a fluke. Obviously at some point he's going to blow a save and give up some amount of runs, but I can't see it being enough to take anything away from him.

[Yankees' #1 Fan]

he did not give up a single earned run, for the entire month.

[Jesse2]

he did not give up a single earned run, for the entire month.

it's a no-brainer.

[Doug]

AL - Jonathan Papelbon
NL - Edwin Encarnacion

[LeftWideOpen]

I'm sure at some point in the season the Yankees' bats will hurt him, but nothing about Papelbon to this point makes me think it's a fluke. Obviously at some point he's going to blow a save and give up some amount of runs, but I can't see it being enough to take anything away from him.

nah, he'll convert every save and finish w/ a 0.00 ERA.

but seriously, he's the ROY unless he blows his arm out. He won't keep up this pace but he also won't fall far below it. He's probably on the All-Star team this year and you can't really say that about anyone else in the AL (not that the All-Star game is the criteria for ROY, but you get the idea).

The NL will be tighter, but I like Fielder in the end. Encarnacion will be right there as well a pair of Marlins: Ramirez and Hermida. Hermida has been off to a slow start and has hit the DL, but this kid is insane. He'll turn it around.

[Jesse2]

nah, he'll convert every save and finish w/ a 0.00 ERA.

haha if that happens I will change my sig to "I heart the red sox".

[kshtoinks12]

Paps
and prince

[Split2nd]

Papelbon and Fielder

Verlander and Hermida in 2nd

[LeftWideOpen]

yeah, Fielder is seriously going to be a star. I know there's a lot of hype for the kid cause of Cecil, but he's gonna blow by his career numbers. Milwaukee is in good hands, as long as they pony up the dough to keep him around.

[Emopunkthrice]

Ryan Zimmerman is also playing decent, considering he's at the mediocre RFK Stadium. He'll turn it around with the pressure coming off him to be perfect.

[Emopunkthrice]

nah, he'll convert every save and finish w/ a 0.00 ERA.

but seriously, he's the ROY unless he blows his arm out. He won't keep up this pace but he also won't fall far below it. He's probably on the All-Star team this year and you can't really say that about anyone else in the AL (not that the All-Star game is the criteria for ROY, but you get the idea).

The NL will be tighter, but I like Fielder in the end. Encarnacion will be right there as well a pair of Marlins: Ramirez and Hermida. Hermida has been off to a slow start and has hit the DL, but this kid is insane. He'll turn it around.
0.55 ERA

[LeftWideOpen]

0.55 ERA

in case people misinterpreted, the "but seriously .." implied that i was joking about the 0.00 ERA. I was serious about the All-Star game and ROY though.

[GoWaitInTheCar]

Everyone one is sold on Fielder..

Good call, I say.

[NetNerdsRevenge]

0.55 ERA
Which is still better than Verlander or anyone other rookie who is placed in high leverage situations.

[Emopunkthrice]

wow, Conor Jackson has surprisingly did quietly great so far. same with Hanley Ramirez.

[StandMyBrothers]

So with Francisco Liriano arm hurting, Verlander and his arm problems, Papelbon been struggling, Jered Weaver pitching not so great. Who's everyone's choice now????

[xbrokendownx]

liriano should still win it in the AL

and dan uggla in the NL. or zimmerman

[LeftWideOpen]

papelbon since its very likely that liriano's arm injury is going to keep him out till the end of the season. otherwise, we'd have a tight race.

in the nl, its fielder. Uggla is slowing down in a hurry and that'll likely continue the rest of the way.

[histrionics22]

Ronny Paulino should get some consideration in the NL. Guy is batting over .300 and Pirate pitchers are A LOT better when he is behind the plate.

[xbrokendownx]

Ronny Paulino should get some consideration in the NL. Guy is batting over .300 and Pirate pitchers are A LOT better when he is behind the plate.




no.

[histrionics22]

no.
Good answer. The typical geocentric Yankees fan. Try opening your eyes to people outside the mainstream media.

[xbrokendownx]

Good answer. The typical geocentric Yankees fan. Try opening your eyes to people outside the mainstream media.






yeah, youre right.

if you think ronnie paulino should be the ROY you need to have your head fucking checked. my mind is very open...just because i dont agree with your asinine statement that a player should win a certain award doesnt make me narrowminded, asshole.

[histrionics22]

yeah, youre right.

if you think ronnie paulino should be the ROY you need to have your head fucking checked. my mind is very open...just because i dont agree with your asinine statement that a player should win a certain award doesnt make me narrowminded, asshole.

And if you're too fucking retarded to read that I said "deserves some consideration" then maybe you shouldn't be on these boards. Come up with some better rookies in the NL. I'd like to see. Just because he doesn't get Baseball Tonight coverage like Fielder or Uggla, doesn't mean he shouldn't be considered.

[xbrokendownx]

And if you're too fucking retarded to read that I said "deserves some consideration" then maybe you shouldn't be on these boards. Come up with some better rookies in the NL. I'd like to see. Just because he doesn't get Baseball Tonight coverage like Fielder or Uggla, doesn't mean he shouldn't be considered.




haha yeah, because dan uggla and prince fielder are ALL over baseball tonight every day.



dan uggla
prince fielder
ryan zimmerman
josh barfield
conor jackson
hanley ramirez
josh willingham
mike jacobs (basically the whole marlins team)
andre ethier


all before i would even consider paulino.

paulino doenst even have enough ABs to qualify for the BA lead, since he isnt listed anywhere.

[bigal00004]

If the season ended now, there is no doubt in my mind that Liriano would get the AL ROY. But does he get it if he doesn't play again this year? I assume he will play again this year, but I just want to pose the question.

[KB3RG]

For AL, now that Liriano is uncertain to play the remainder of the seaon, its going to be Verlander. Well thats my pick. As for NL I will have to say hanley ramierz

[bigal00004]

For AL, now that Liriano is uncertain to play the remainder of the seaon, its going to be Verlander. Well thats my pick. As for NL I will have to say hanley ramierz

But Verlander isn't completely healthy either. And Liriano thinks he'll be back once he is eligible to play again (like two weeks).

[KB3RG]

Verlander has the start tomorrow. I know hes not in perfect condition. Its a set back to Liriano. I think if Verlander leads the majors with wins its his award to win

[bigmike]

So with Francisco Liriano arm hurting, Verlander and his arm problems, Papelbon been struggling, Jered Weaver pitching not so great. Who's everyone's choice now????

But Verlander isn't completely healthy either. And Liriano thinks he'll be back once he is eligible to play again (like two weeks).

Verlander has the start tomorrow. I know hes not in perfect condition. Its a set back to Liriano. I think if Verlander leads the majors with wins its his award to win
these are misnomers. He is completely healthy, it was just a matter of controlling how many innings he pitches the rest of the way. Which is why when Maroth comes back in probably 2 weeks, we'll run a 6 man rotation of Bonderman, Verlander, Robertson, Rogers, Miner, Maroth. He'd only pitched over 130 innings one time i believe, and that was back when he was at school at Old Dominion and he's approaching or has surpassed 130 innings already, but he is healthy.


And right now, it's Liriano but if he doesn't pitch the rest of the way I'll go with Papelbon because i don't expect him to blove 1 out of every 3 saves. However, if he keeps stumbling, i think Verlander may over take him whether it's warranted or not.

[StandMyBrothers]

Matt Garza pitches tommorow against the Blue Jays, next years ROY.

[histrionics22]

haha yeah, because dan uggla and prince fielder are ALL over baseball tonight every day.



dan uggla
prince fielder
ryan zimmerman
josh barfield
conor jackson
hanley ramirez
josh willingham
mike jacobs (basically the whole marlins team)
andre ethier


all before i would even consider paulino.

paulino doenst even have enough ABs to qualify for the BA lead, since he isnt listed anywhere.

Yea actually they do get a considerable amount of hype from baseball tonight since their highlights are actually shown on the show. The only ones there that could be argued are Uggla, Fielder, Jacobs, and Zimmerman. Thats not saying they are better, thats saying you can argue they are better. Mostof the names you just mentioned were on the "Rookies to watch For" list before the seasonstarted. If you btohered to look, you'd notice Paulino has better stats than most.

Paulino has played in 94 games and has around 300 ABs. He's also batting .314, while hitting 8th most nights, a very tough spot in the order in the NL. He also has a very high average with RISP. The Pirate pitchers ERA is significantly lower when he catches them. Sure he doesn't have the power numbers, but he power isn't everything.

[StandMyBrothers]

Paulino isn't going to get nothing better than a SINGLE 5th place vote if he's lucky. He's just not hyped.

[xbrokendownx]

Yea actually they do get a considerable amount of hype from baseball tonight since their highlights are actually shown on the show. The only ones there that could be argued are Uggla, Fielder, Jacobs, and Zimmerman. Thats not saying they are better, thats saying you can argue they are better. Mostof the names you just mentioned were on the "Rookies to watch For" list before the seasonstarted. If you btohered to look, you'd notice Paulino has better stats than most.

Paulino has played in 94 games and has around 300 ABs. He's also batting .314, while hitting 8th most nights, a very tough spot in the order in the NL. He also has a very high average with RISP. The Pirate pitchers ERA is significantly lower when he catches them. Sure he doesn't have the power numbers, but he power isn't everything.





HAHA youre using his SPOT in the batting order as the reason hes hitting well? there probably is a reason that hes batting 8th...

and really? he has better stats than most? lets look into this....


dan uggla: .293, 18 HR, 66 RBI
ryan zimmerman: .291, 15 HR, 75 RBI
prince fielder: .285, 21 HR, 58 RBI
josh barfield: .284, 8 HR, 36 RBI, 16 steals
conor jackson: .275, 10 HR, 57 RBI
josh willingham: .263, 17 HR, 57 RBI
hanley ramirez: .265, 11 HR, 35 RBI, 34 steals
mike jacobs: .279, 15 HR, 57 RBI
andre ethier: ..346, 11 HR, 57 RBI


paulino is .314 6 HR, 36 RBI

hell i think id even vote for melky cabrera before i voted for paulino

[selftitled85]

HAHA youre using his SPOT in the batting order as the reason hes hitting well? there probably is a reason that hes batting 8th...

and really? he has better stats than most? lets look into this....


dan uggla: .293, 18 HR, 66 RBI
ryan zimmerman: .291, 15 HR, 75 RBI
prince fielder: .285, 21 HR, 58 RBI
josh barfield: .284, 8 HR, 36 RBI, 16 steals
conor jackson: .275, 10 HR, 57 RBI
josh willingham: .263, 17 HR, 57 RBI
hanley ramirez: .265, 11 HR, 35 RBI, 34 steals
mike jacobs: .279, 15 HR, 57 RBI
andre ethier: ..346, 11 HR, 57 RBI


paulino is .314 6 HR, 36 RBI

hell i think id even vote for melky cabrera before i voted for paulino

i think melky should get consideration...he was disastrous when he played last year in the few games he was in. but this year he has been wonderful for the yanks.

verlander should win though. he is not gonna win the cy but he deserves this one.

[bigmike]

i think melky should get consideration...he was disastrous when he played last year in the few games he was in. but this year he has been wonderful for the yanks.

verlander should win though. he is not gonna win the cy but he deserves this one.
If papelbon's ERA is under 2.50 by the end of the year and he has 40+ saves, Papelbon should win it, not Verlander.

[PunkENG]

All you east coasters need to recognize. ANDRE EITHER is definetly the rookie of the year. He is leading all NL rookies in BA and OB%.

[bigmike]

All you east coasters need to recognize. ANDRE EITHER is definetly the rookie of the year. He is leading all NL rookies in BA and OB%.
yeah, because those are clearly the only two categories to judge by.

Ryan Zimmerman has more HR's and RBIs and plays a gold glove caliber 3B. He wins.

[justinevans]

i think melky should get consideration...he was disastrous when he played last year in the few games he was in. but this year he has been wonderful for the yanks.

verlander should win though. he is not gonna win the cy but he deserves this one.

no.

but I agree with Verlander for the AL

[justinevans]

For AL, now that Liriano is uncertain to play the remainder of the seaon, its going to be Verlander. Well thats my pick. As for NL I will have to say hanley ramierz

not ramirez.

[bigal00004]

Matt Garza pitches tommorow against the Blue Jays, next years ROY.

Thats what I am hoping.

[Split2nd]

Garza may get to 50 IP before the end of the year though

[bigal00004]

Garza may get to 50 IP before the end of the year though

Would that make him inelligible for next year?

[justinevans]

Would that make him inelligible for next year?

Correct.

[bigal00004]

Well, yeah, he definitely could pitch 50 Innings this year. I just hope he pitches amazingly however many he pitches.

[bigmike]

Well, yeah, he definitely could pitch 50 Innings this year. I just hope he pitches amazingly however many he pitches.
from everything I've read, i don't see how he couldn't give the twins quality starts basically every time out. he's apparently the most polished, MLB ready pitcher in the minors right now.

[bigal00004]

from everything I've read, i don't see how he couldn't give the twins quality starts basically every time out. he's apparently the most polished, MLB ready pitcher in the minors right now.

Yeah, apparently he can throw 95mph strikes after already throwing 100 pitches in a game. I'm excited to see him pitch.

[bigmike]

Yeah, apparently he can throw 95mph strikes after already throwing 100 pitches in a game. I'm excited to see him pitch.
psh. that's nothing compared to Verlander throwing 99 in the 9th inning against cleveland a couple months ago ;)

[justinevans]

psh. that's nothing compared to Verlander throwing 99 in the 9th inning against cleveland a couple months ago ;)

I hope everyone realizes once Detroit clinches the division, hell will have officially froze over.

wahoo, no more global warming.

[Chriz2z]

I hope everyone realizes once Detroit clinches the division, hell will have officially froze over.

wahoo, no more global warming.
It's true.

[Split2nd]

Yeah, apparently he can throw 95mph strikes after already throwing 100 pitches in a game. I'm excited to see him pitch.

Where'd you read that? I heard he works in the 90-94 range but can touch 95-96 only on occasion.

[ThriftWhore]

Same as who I said months ago when everybody was sucking Papelbons dong-
Justin Verlander.

[StandMyBrothers]

I actually was pulling for Kinsler early on. It looked like he could've gotten it. Except he got those injuries. He's still hitting amazingly.

[histrionics22]

HAHA youre using his SPOT in the batting order as the reason hes hitting well? there probably is a reason that hes batting 8th...

and really? he has better stats than most? lets look into this....


dan uggla: .293, 18 HR, 66 RBI
ryan zimmerman: .291, 15 HR, 75 RBI
prince fielder: .285, 21 HR, 58 RBI
josh barfield: .284, 8 HR, 36 RBI, 16 steals
conor jackson: .275, 10 HR, 57 RBI
josh willingham: .263, 17 HR, 57 RBI
hanley ramirez: .265, 11 HR, 35 RBI, 34 steals
mike jacobs: .279, 15 HR, 57 RBI
andre ethier: ..346, 11 HR, 57 RBI


paulino is .314 6 HR, 36 RBI

hell i think id even vote for melky cabrera before i voted for paulino
So basically, you are basing everything on home runs. Since he plays on a shitty team like Pittsburgh, he doesn't have many chances to drive in runs. When he does get a chance though he comes thorugh. He's batting .316 with RISP. Once again, I said his power numbers aren't there, but there is more to judge than HRs. Also, the 8th batter is often times better than the 7th or even 6th batter. The 8th batter sees less pitches and usually has more chances to drive runners in before the pitcher comes up.

Oh, and once again, I said "should get some consideration". Not that he necessarily should win it. Maybe now you've opened your eyes.

[justinevans]

Chris Coste Hahaha

[StandMyBrothers]

so stole this from what the mlb.com people think
American League
Head of the class:

Kenji Johjima, C, Mariners: In any language, one of the most important jobs for a catcher is to be on the same page as his pitching staff. While Johjima experimented a little more than desired -- he once called a series of pitches that went against the scouting report, just to see if the report was accurate -- he performed better all-around than most expected. He worked hard to gain the confidence of the Mariners pitchers and was a big hit with the bat, as well.
Francisco Liriano, LHP, Twins: The switch that turned on one of the hottest streaks of the season came on May 19, when Liriano made his first start of the season and beat the Brewers, ending a five-game Twins losing streak and propelling the Twins back into the AL playoff picture. For the next two months, he was among the best starters in the big leagues, posting a 12-2 record before an aching elbow sent him to the disabled list in early August.
Jonathan Papelbon, RHP, Red Sox: The game plan going into Spring Training was to put Papelbon in the starting rotation, replacing departed Bronson Arroyo. But an injury to veteran closer and 2004 World Series hero Keith Foulke forced the Red Sox to change plans and the 25-year-old with one Minor League save on his resume became the closer. He converted all 10 save chances he had in April, allowed his first earned run on May 3 and went into the All-Star break with 26 saves, a 0.57 ERA and an invitation to the Midsummer Classic in Pittsburgh. A "tired" shoulder put him on the shelf in early September.
Justin Verlander, RHP, Tigers: One reason the Tigers went from a team that lost 109 games three years ago to one that could win 100 this season is this lanky right-hander who has been among the elite AL hurlers since early May. He rattled off an 11-1 record from May 4 to Aug. 9 and helped lead the Tigers' unexpected pursuit of the AL Central title.
Jered Weaver, RHP, Angels: Imagine what might have happened had Weaver started the season in the Angels' starting rotation. He didn't join the team until May 26, won his first four MLB starts, returned to the Minors for two weeks, came back on June 30 and won five more games before absorbing his first loss. Nine wins in nine consecutive starts tied the MLB record for most wins to start a career, a mark Weaver shares with Hall of Fame left-hander Whitey Ford.
Others who have made good first impressions:

Pitchers

Jon Lester, LHP, Red Sox: Anaplastic large cell lymphoma cancer ended the left-hander's season in September, but he was a force in the Red Sox rotation in June and July, posting five consecutive wins and seven overall.
Jeremy Sowers, LHP, Indians: Pitched back-to-back shutouts and carried a six-game winning streak into the second week of September. Doesn't throw hard, but knows how to pitch.
Joel Zumaya, RHP, Tigers: He has been one of the most reliable setup men in the Majors this season, striking out more than one batter an inning and surrendering about one hit every two innings he pitches. Zumaya has been a rock-solid bridge to closer Todd Jones.
Hitters

Melky Cabrera, OF, Yankees: He is not the Most Valuable Player on a team of MVPs, but Cabrera could be the most appreciated after filling in so admirably for injured left fielder Hideki Matsui.
Ian Kinsler, 2B, Rangers: An injury robbed him of valuable playing time from April 12 to May 10, but he could be a fixture at his position for many years. He had a tough act following in the footsteps of Alfonso Soriano.
Nick Markakis, OF, Orioles: Got off to slow start and was batting .219 at the end of May. But he got hot in June and stayed hot in July and August, batting .403 and .354, respectively. Hit 10 home runs in August, including three in one game.


Head of the class:

Andre Ethier, OF, Dodgers: A strained left groin suffered by veteran outfielder Ricky Ledee prompted the Dodgers to promote the player they received in an offseason trade with the Athletics for Milton Bradley. And the rest is history. Ethier joined the team on May 2, went 1-for-4 against the Diamondbacks and found a new home in left field, batting at least .300 in May (.324), June (.344), July (.362) and August (.316).
Prince Fielder, 1B, Brewers: The son of former AL home run champion Cecil, Prince has been a lineup fixture from Opening Day, providing offensive production that would make his daddy proud. The 22-year-old already has shattered the club record for most home runs by a rookie, which had been 17, shared by Danny Walton (1970) and Greg Vaughn ('90). Fielder also owns the club mark for most RBIs and could break a few more before the season ends.
Josh Johnson, RHP, Marlins: Since moving into the Marlins starting rotation on May 4, the 22-year-old has been rock solid. Fourteen of his first 18 Major League starts were quality starts (three or fewer earned runs in at least six innings) and he ranks among the league leaders in ERA. Being in the right place at the right time has worked out splendidly for the 6-foot-7 hurler.
Dan Uggla, 2B, Marlins: Uggla, 26, could be the next Rule 5 poster child. The Marlins selected him from the Arizona Diamondbacks organization last December during the Winter Meetings and he has been simply sensational, earning an invitation to the All-Star Game. Uggla blossomed in May, when he batted .356 and drove in 18 runs.
Ryan Zimmerman, 3B, Nationals: He stands to be the only rookie in either league to drive in at least 100 runs, which says a lot about his ability to hit with runners on base. The fourth overall selection in the 2005 First-Year Player Draft has come a long way in a short time and has stardom written all over his collector's card.
Others who have made good first impressions:

Pitchers
Matt Cain, RHP, Giants: A one-hit shutout victory over the Athletics in May indicates just how high the ceiling is for this 21-year-old right-hander. A future ace of the pitching staff, make no mistake about that.
Cole Hamels, LHP, Phillies: His much-anticipated MLB debut came on May 12 when he pitched five scoreless innings, allowed only one hit and struck out seven. But it's far too early to compare him to former Phillies star lefty Steve Carlton.
Takashi Saito, RHP, Dodgers: There was a big gulp within the organization when battle-tested closer Eric Gagne underwent season-ending surgery in June. But the all-important job fell into the capable hands of Saito, a 36-year-old from Japan. He registered 18 saves in his first 20 save chances.
Hitters
Josh Barfield, 2B, Padres: A walk-off, three-run home run against All-Star lefty Brian Fuentes on Sept. 4 provided the biggest highlight of the season for the 23-year-old son of former MLB star Jesse Barfield. But Josh has been a steady contributor in all phases of the game during his rookie season.
Chris Duncan, OF, Cardinals: Another son of a former big-league player (his dad is Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan) the left-handed-hitting Chris Duncan spent most of April and May in the Minors but rocked big-time in the big-leagues in July (.324) and August (.361).
Russell Martin, C, Dodgers: His claim to fame so far is going to the same high school in Canada as teammate Eric Gagne. But Martin made a name for himself in '06, beginning with a two-hit, two-RBI MLB debut game against the Brewers on May 5.
Hanley Ramirez, SS, Marlins: The 22-year-old from the Dominican Republic will finish among the rookie leaders in games played and at-bats. In his first 136 games in '06, he had 15 games with at least three hits.



And ronny paulino isn't even mentioned hehe

[histrionics22]

No one pays attention to the Pirates so yeah he won't be mentioned. He's also not a blue chip prospect like these guys are. Theres no telling whether Paulino's hit his ceiling already. These guys have more of a future.

[bigmike]

No one pays attention to the Pirates so yeah he won't be mentioned. He's also not a blue chip prospect like these guys are. Theres no telling whether Paulino's hit his ceiling already. These guys have more of a future.
Uhhh if they're paying attention to the fucking Mariners, they're paying attention to the Pirates.

[Broken Parachute]

Josh Willingham for the NL.
Chris Ray for the AL.
Wow, you are so wrong.

[Broken Parachute]

I hope Zimmerman wins it.

[Split2nd]

No one pays attention to the Pirates so yeah he won't be mentioned. He's also not a blue chip prospect like these guys are. Theres no telling whether Paulino's hit his ceiling already. These guys have more of a future.

Or maybe it's because Paulino is not very good? He's an decent to average player who doesn't deserve any recognition for being outstanding?

No, no that can't be it, it must be because the voters hate the Pirates! And the city of Pittsburgh!

[histrionics22]

Or maybe it's because Paulino is not very good? He's an decent to average player who doesn't deserve any recognition for being outstanding?

No, no that can't be it, it must be because the voters hate the Pirates! And the city of Pittsburgh!

He's having as good a season as some of the guys on the list. But its easy to look past that when the guy doesn't show up on a top 100 prospects list.

[StandMyBrothers]

I don't think Dan Uggla or Russel Martin were top 100 prospects.

[thejetstolehome]

zimmerman for the NL.

i'd like it to be verlander for the AL but papelbon will probably get it.

EDIT: uggla's gotta be up there for consideration, too.

[histrionics22]

I don't think Dan Uggla or Russel Martin were top 100 prospects.
I'm pretty sure Uggla was on a lot of lists for people to watch out for. I certainly heard his name before this season.

Martin: AVG .293 | HR 8 | RBI 55 | OBP .362 | SLG .442


Paulino:
AVG .316 | HR 6 | RBI 46 | OBP .369 | SLG .398

Come on. This is ridiculous. Paulino is still batting .337 with RISP. He's just not a blue chip prospect so you won't hear about him.

[StandMyBrothers]

uggla was a freaking rule 5 pick. But I do give props to Sanchez and Paulino for batting extremly well for Pittsburgh.

[bigmike]

I'm pretty sure Uggla was on a lot of lists for people to watch out for. I certainly heard his name before this season.

Martin: AVG .293 | HR 8 | RBI 55 | OBP .362 | SLG .442


Paulino:
AVG .316 | HR 6 | RBI 46 | OBP .369 | SLG .398

Come on. This is ridiculous. Paulino is still batting .337 with RISP. He's just not a blue chip prospect so you won't hear about him.
Yes. you're right. no one is giving him consideration because he wasn't a blue chip prospect. That must be it.

Weak sauce.

[xbrokendownx]

dan uggla is a monster

[histrionics22]

Yes. you're right. no one is giving him consideration because he wasn't a blue chip prospect. That must be it.

Weak sauce.

Good reply Mr. sauce.

[Scott Weber]

My votes go to Liriano and Uggla.

[justinevans]

My votes go to Liriano and Uggla.

Verlander will get it now before Liriano if not Jered Weaver will.

I think Uggla will definitely get it considering he was an all-star.

[mikeford]

Dan Uggla and Papelbon are my picks. Since basically all of the top 4 guys in the AL fell off come august/september I hope Paps still gets it.

[Scott Weber]

Verlander will get it now before Liriano if not Jered Weaver will.

I think Uggla will definitely get it considering he was an all-star.
I still think Liriano deserves it.

[mikeford]

i would be totally satisfied if they honestly gave the ROY to Verlander, Liriano and Papelbon. Honestly where would their respective teams be without them?

I know the Red Sox WOULD BE in LAST. God, imagine Keith Foulke and/or Mike Timlin's corpse closing this year? we'd have a worse record than the Cubs for god sakes

[StandMyBrothers]

Liriano done for season.

[StandMyBrothers]

seriously, Matt Cain has been pitching extremly well as of late and may become a top vote getter to win ROY if he keeps this streak.

[Split2nd]

I'm pretty sure Uggla was on a lot of lists for people to watch out for. I certainly heard his name before this season.

Martin: AVG .293 | HR 8 | RBI 55 | OBP .362 | SLG .442


Paulino:
AVG .316 | HR 6 | RBI 46 | OBP .369 | SLG .398

Come on. This is ridiculous. Paulino is still batting .337 with RISP. He's just not a blue chip prospect so you won't hear about him.

The fact that you actually think Paulino isn't getting recognition because he's not a top prospect is ridiculous. HE'S NOT DOING ANYTHING OUTSTANDING, therefore he doesn't deserve an award that recognizes a player for outstanding achievement. Being a Pirate and batting .300 doesn't qualify a player for an award.

[GoWaitInTheCar]

Old as hell thread.

Hahaha.

I have no idea who to pick now..

[histrionics22]

The fact that you actually think Paulino isn't getting recognition because he's not a top prospect is ridiculous. HE'S NOT DOING ANYTHING OUTSTANDING, therefore he doesn't deserve an award that recognizes a player for outstanding achievement. Being a Pirate and batting .300 doesn't qualify a player for an award.
The argument was originally that he deserves consideration. Obviously there are better rookies out there. He doesn't have power numbers, but his RBI total is pretty high considering how many oppoortunities he gets to drive in runs batting on the back end of a weak lineup. .343 with RISP. He's having a very good year for a rookie. He deserves more recognition than he gets.

[StandMyBrothers]

So Papelbon/Liriano out for the season, hmnn it may come down to Weaver and Verlander

[bigmike]

So Papelbon/Liriano out for the season, hmnn it may come down to Weaver and Verlander
i don't know, i'm not ready to give it to verlander. :shrugs:

[xbrokendownx]

melky cabrera for ROY!













(kidding)

[Split2nd]

I'd go with Weaver.

[justinevans]

melky cabrera for ROY!













(kidding)

he shouldn't win ROTY and mvp, that just wouldn't be fair.

[xbrokendownx]

he shouldn't win ROTY and mvp, that just wouldn't be fair.







yeah i guess youre right

[weezer182]

Matt Cain should win it. 13-9 with a 3.75 era. The last six starts he has only given up 1 earned run

[justinevans]

Matt Cain should win it. 13-9 with a 3.75 era. The last six starts he has only given up 1 earned run

the nl rookie will be a marlin.

[xbrokendownx]

Matt Cain should win it. 13-9 with a 3.75 era. The last six starts he has only given up 1 earned run







no

[weezer182]

nohe has definitely proved to be a contender...especially the way he is playing as of late. 1 earned run in six starts is incredible but i wouldnt expect you to know that

[justinevans]

he has definitely proved to be a contender...especially the way he is playing as of late. 1 earned run in six starts is incredible but i wouldnt expect you to know that

first off it is 5.

In one of the games, he went 5.1 and had 6 bb

the start before that, he got pounced for 6 runs in 4 innings.

[weezer182]

first off it is 5.

In one of the games, he went 5.1 and had 6 bb

the start before that, he got pounced for 6 runs in 4 innings.that start was also over a month ago. obviously starting pitchers are going to have some bad games through out a season. the point is that he is having a good season and playing well as of late. although he probably won't win he definitely should be a candidate

[Split2nd]

He's having a good stretch, and should be mentioned, but there are guys having much better years.

[justinevans]

Anibel Sanchez - 8-2, 2.96 era, no hitter
Josh Johnson 12-7, 3.10 era
Scott Olsen 12-8, 3.98 era

[xbrokendownx]

he has definitely proved to be a contender...especially the way he is playing as of late. 1 earned run in six starts is incredible but i wouldnt expect you to know that






right.


since you live on the west coast, us east coasters must not know anything about your teams...


actually, i DID know that because i have cain on one of my fantasy teams that are in the playoffs. but good try though

[weezer182]

right.


since you live on the west coast, us east coasters must not know anything about your teams...


actually, i DID know that because i have cain on one of my fantasy teams that are in the playoffs. but good try thoughthere still is a difference between looking up stats and watching a player play. who knows you might have watched him pitch a lot this year but i doubt it because giant games arent televised that much there. all im saying is he deserves to be considered for the award. he won't probably won't win it but still deserves the recognition.

[xbrokendownx]

there still is a difference between looking up stats and watching a player play. who knows you might have watched him pitch a lot this year but i doubt it. all im saying is he deserves to be considered for the award. he won't probably won't win it but still deserves the recognition.






5 good starts should not get you consideration for a major award, im sorry

[weezer182]

5 good starts should not get you consideration for a major award, im sorryhe has 13 wins as well