MLB All-Star Game: The case for each NL Final Vote candidate
By Tim Haberin
Justin Bour, Miami Marlins
The Miami Marlins are hosting the All-Star Game and have two representatives to show for themselves: Marcell Ozuna is one of the NL’s starting outfielders, while Giancarlo Stanton is a reserve and will defend his crown in the Home Run Derby. For hometown fans who want to increase their delegation to three, Justin Bour presents the chance as a Final Vote candidate.
The first baseman is putting together a strong first half at the plate, slashing .289/.362/.553 with 18 home runs and 54 RBI in 71 games. He’s well on his way to setting new career highs in the home run and RBI categories by surpassing the 23 long balls and 73 RBI he managed in 2015.
Bour has quietly been a productive player with the bat for the past two seasons, though he was limited to 90 games last year. He slashed .263/.332/.478 (121 OPS+) with 38 homers and 124 RBI in 219 contests over that span. As of now, the 29-year-old appears headed toward his best campaign yet with a 142 OPS+.
It’s easy to get overshadowed by guys like Stanton and Ozuna, but Bour would surely gain some deserved recognition for his work if he wins the Final Vote. We’ll see if the fans in Miami can make it happen.
Official Final Vote Hashtag: #VoteBour
Next: A Reigning MVP