Sep 1, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins right fielder Giancarlo Stanton (27) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run during the first inning against the New York Mets at Marlins Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
2. Giancarlo Stanton, OF, Marlins
If not for a pitch that got a bit too far inside on him and his unfortunately awful team, this power-hitting righty may have been the NL MVP last season. Moving past this incident (BEWARE: not for those with weak stomachs), would be Stanton’s first triumph. Once he does that, it’s time to focus on the task at hand.
The Marlins inked him to a 13-year, $325 million deal this winter with the promise that they’d build around him. That’s yet to be seen, but whether or not the Marlins deliver, Stanton must continue to play at an elite level to at least give his team a chance to compete in the NL East division.
Stanton is coming off a spectacular season during which he appeared in 145 games, launching a league-high 37 home runs into the stands while driving in 105 runs. He also hit .288 and led the league in slugging at .555. There is reason for concern, however.
The 25-year-old right fielder has yet to play a full season in his Major League career. He appeared well on his way before taking a baseball to the face last season, so there’s that. Still, it would be nice to see if Stanton can avoid injury for one full calendar and avoid getting labeled as an injury prone player.