The first base position may be the position of power, but it seems like the second base position has been the position of balance. There’s a nice blend of power, speed, and average from second basemen. Clint Barmes displayed that and put up some very steady numbers, but Chase Utley is the epitome of an elite second baseman. Last but not least is Felipe Lopez who proved that even when the Nationals don’t think you’re good enough to play baseball, you can keep trying and put up good numbers elsewhere. All three players deserve praise and recognition for their solid performances this week.
Gold
Clint Barmes (2B/3B/SS - Colorado Rockies) - Barmes has been an unexpected surprise this season. A few years ago he was seen as a huge talent, but then he trailed off. Now he’s back from the minors and has been simply amazing. He’s done anything anyone could have asked of him. He’s hit for average, hit his career high in homeruns, has a career high in stolen bases, and has had a very nice average. Barmes may not be of elite quality, but he’s extremely solid and capable of even more if he can continue to get playing time at second.
8/20, 7 runs, 2 HR, 5 RBI, 2 SB, .400 AVG
Silver
Chase Utley (2B - Philadelphia Phillies) - Utley had an unbelievable first half. His second half was good, but his first half was simply amazing. His power numbers didn’t seem to be as consistent in the second half, but he’s still had a terrific season. Ryan Howard may get all of the recognition around Philadelphia because of his numbers, but Utley may be the real MVP of the team. Without him they’d be nowhere. He’s such a talented player and should go into next year’s draft as the consensus number one second baseman.
9/23, 7 runs, 2 HR, 7 RBI, 1 SB, .391 AVG
Bronze
Felipe Lopez (2B/3B/SS/LF - St. Louis Cardinals) - It seems like Lopez has bounced around from team after team. He’s capable of putting up good numbers at times, but other times he seems like the most inconsistent player around. Luckily he showed some consistency this week because he most certainly helped out those who may have taken a risk on starting him, especially in deeper leagues. He was simply amazing when it came to hitting the ball, and nearly hit .500 in 30 at bats. He also showed a little power and even some speed. He’s been a nice addition to St. Louis.
14/30, 8 runs, 1 HR, 4 RBI, 1 SB, .467 AVG
Other Top Performances:
C
| 1B
| 2B
| 3B
| SS
| LF
| CF
| RF
| RP
| SP