In a first-half filled with five no-hitters – two of them perfect games by Matt Cain and Philip Humber, surprise teams, and standout offensive displays we are finally at the All-Star break. So without further ado; here are my MLB first-half awards.
NL MVP: Andrew McCutchen
The Pirates are playing their best ball since 1992, a time when Barry Bonds’ head was a fraction of its current self and Papa Bush was breaking his promise of “No New Taxes”, and Andrew McCutchen is the reason why. Hitting .362 with 18 home runs and 60 RBI, McCutchen has become one the NL’s most dangerous hitters and man no wants to face with men on base. I’m rooting for the Pirates to enchant the Steel City once again, and McCutchen’s play has made Pittsburgh baseball thrilling for the first time since ’79’s “We Are Family” squad. If Andrew McCutchen keeps it up, expect to see the Pirates holding off the Reds and Cardinals and clinch a postseason spot for the first time in two decades. Oh, and did I mention he is taking the place of the injured Giancarlo Stanton (knee surgery) in the Home Run Derby. Expect some towering shots from this stud.
Honorable Mentions: Carlos Beltran, Joey Votto, Ryan Braun
NL Cy Young: Gio Gonzalez
On a young team that has been a pleasant surprise all season long and right now the favorite to win the NL East, Gio Gonzalez has been stellar. With a 12-3 record, a 2.92 ERA, and 118 strikeouts, he has been the clear ace of the National’s staff. That is quite statement given the he pitches on a staff give Stephen Strasburg, who surpassed my expectations after Tommy John surgery in 2010, and a staff with a Major Leauge leading 3.19 team ERA. As much as I admire R.A. Dickey’s dominance, the Mets are not to the caliber of the Nats. Gonzalez will have to continue his dominance if Washington hopes to finish the deal with a division title. Given that the Nationals brass may consider shutting Stasburg down once he reaches his inning limit (which could tough if the Nationals are playoff bound), Gonzalez will be entrusted to dominate every time out from the stretch run into the postseason.
Honorable Mentions: R.A. Dickey, Matt Cain, James McDonald
NL Rookie of the Year: Bryce Harper
This is a no-brainer. Harper has not been over-matched one bit since being called up. He is only 19, a year older than me, and will simply get better. Playing for a contender will be tremendous for his grow, and expect him to play a huge role in September for the Nats. I don’t agree with his selection as an All-Star, but I won’t question it too much. That would be a clown question anyway.
Honorable Mentions: None, it should be unanimous.
AL Awards coming soon.
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