George Springer (Backup Outfielder)
Like Jose Altuve, the reigning World Series MVP hasn’t posted the best numbers in the AL overall.
Still, the outfielder has been good enough to earn his second-straight All-Star nod.
Luckily for the 28-year-old, several roster spots are open for the outfield crew. A handful of other players in the position, such as Betts, Trout and Aaron Judge, boast better numbers by a large margin.
Yet, George Springer falls into the second-tier class thus far with guys like Andrew Benintendi, Mitch Haniger, and Eddie Rosario. Unfortunately, as a backup, the Astros outfielder won’t be able to hit another leadoff homer.
The former top prospect notched similar campaigns each of the past two years. One striking difference last season was an increased batting average. However, while his batting average is similar, Springer has hit for less power.
Thus, his fewer amount of home runs are bringing down his OPS. But Springer is still on track to eclipse 30 in the category by year’s end.
Springer’s defense contributes as well. The outfielder recorded a negative defensive runs saved in 2017. But he’s improved this season, registering positive defensive runs saved, especially in center field.
Hence, that is one reason why Springer ranks ninth among AL outfielders in WAR.
Moreover, Springer gets help from his offense, just as much as the AL leaders in runs. Houston’s offense leads the league in runs – Springer ranks fourth in the AL in runs.
If he finishes the season ranked in the top three, it will be his fourth-straight year atop the runs leaders. However, Springer’s teammates shouldn’t take away from his success in 2018.