MLB: 4 National League Hitters Who Need to Have Big Second Halves

Jul 16, 2013; Flushing, NY, USA; National League second baseman Brandon Phillips (4) of the Cincinnati Reds warms up before the 2013 All Star Game at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports

A new half is almost like a clean slate.

Well, not quite. The first-half numbers technically don’t go away, but a productive second half has its many benefits, especially for those on contenders. For those who aren’t sniffing October baseball, adding a little jolt to the stats is the upside. Some players–impending free agents–also need a solid second half to bolster their free-agent stock.

So, there is plenty riding on the second half. Add in the stretch run, and it makes for some interesting scenarios, both of which can be positive and negative.

Let’s take a look at four National League hitters who need to have a good second half.