Vote: choose your American League first-half MVP

June 22, 2014; Anaheim, CA, USA; Texas Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre (29) hits a single in the second inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

1. Adrian Beltre, Texas Rangers
2014 stats: .337/.383/.534, 13 HR, 51 RBI, 150 OPS+, 148 wRC+, .396 wOBA

I know the Rangers have had an extremely difficult season, but Beltre has still found the perseverance to perform at a high level. He’s not letting the Rangers’ poor record detract him…at least not at the plate.

Beltre currently leads the AL in batting average, but is also 8th in OBP and 6th in SLG. His OPS+, wRC+, and wOBA are also in the top 10 within the AL.

If Beltre can maintain his current pace, he’s in line to author his best offensive season since 2004 when he was with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He finished second in the NL MVP voting that season with Barry Bonds winning top honors – nothing to be ashamed of. He could even surpass that season if his baseball karma goes well.

And I’m well aware of the track record that players performing at this pace don’t usually garner a lot of MVP consideration. If those players do receive recognition, it is usually on down on the voters’ list.