Second Baseman: Daniel Murphy – Washington Nationals
Is there anyone outside the nation’s capital that anticipates Daniel Murphy’s incredible start to continue the entire season? No? Ok, good. There is a reason he currently finds himself on the trading block in all three of my fantasy leagues. It’s not because he isn’t producing. It has more to do with the .387 batting average, and .619 slugging percentage he is sporting being completely unsustainable.
Murphy, who is in the midst of his best season to date, has taken advantage of playing in a lineup that features Bryce Harper. While Harper doesn’t deserve all the credit for Murphy’s outlandish year, the special attention he receives has allowed Murphy to reap some benefits.
Murphy’s historic playoff run with the Mets, in which the second baseman launched seven homers in nine games, coupled with his hot start with the Nationals this year, has definitely changed the way people see him. It is important to note, however, that before entering this lengthy hot streak, Murphy, who aside from hitting is regarded as a poor fielder, has never finished a year with a WAR higher than 3.0, which is a number “stars” frequently eclipse.
Take last year for instance. Before the playoffs, Murphy finished tied for 22nd with a 1.4 WAR among qualifying second basemen. It is not to say that he is undeserving of an All-Star appearance this year. Based off the stats he has compiled, he definitely is. It’s just based off his career averages, which lead one to believe a drop off is coming shortly. Combined with playing alongside what may be the best hitter in the game in Bryce Harper, Murphy just might be a little overrated right now.
Next: A shortstop north of the border