Nolan Arenado, Rockies
.269 AVG /.324 OBP / .462 SLG / 4 HR / 14 RBI
The uber-athletic, slugging third baseman of the Rockies plays with a certain passion that invigorates his Colorado teammates and fans alike. People tend to argue that his production is simply due to the favorable dimensions and thin air of his home stadium Coors Field. They would be completely misinformed.
His home and road splits do indicate a lower road average, decreased slugging percentage, and more strikeouts away from home. However, 109 Coors home runs is a mark that barely towers over 81 road home runs.
Why should a player taking advantage of a fortuitous situation be held against him? The expansive gaps of Coors allow for more hits in the same way that the vast dimensions of the stadium formerly known as AT&T Park held Madison Bumgarner‘s ERA over .60 percentage points lower at home, as compared to the road. He is simply taking advantage of the situation he is in, as is any baseball player throughout history.
Above all else, Arenado impresses with his glove, reaching everything that he can. Often sprawling out in the third base hole or past the bag for sharply struck grounders. His unmatched quick reflexes allow him to reach balls most third baseman only wish to. His arm is also incredibly strong, as he is able to fire a throw the runners out when he makes one of these diving stops.
In big moments Arenado’s fiery personality also shines through, as it is very easy to see his intense passion. In early April, Arenado was visibly displeased when he could not his fifth or sixth outstanding play of the game to preserve the no-hitter of German Marquez. His bat, glove, and attitude combine to make him a true star in Colorado.