2019 MLB Season: Handing out the hardware

By David Hill | Oct 1, 2019

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 14: Mike Trout #27 of the Los Angeles Angels looks on from the dugout during the first inning of the MLB game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on September 14, 2019 in Anaheim, California. The Rays defeated the Angels 3-1. (Photo by Victor Decolongon/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images) /

American League Rookie of the Year: Yordan Alvarez

In just three months, Yordan Alvarez made an impressive case to be the AL Rookie of the Year.

He was called to the majors as a necessity, as the Astros were looking for more punch in the lineup as they dealt with injuries. At the time, it was thought that Alvarez may have a brief stint in the majors, a chance to experience what it takes to be a major leaguer before heading back to the minors.

Instead, Alvarez may never see the minors again. In those three months, he produced an impressive .313/.412/.655 batting line, hitting 26 doubles and 27 homers. He proved to be the power hitter that the Astros needed over the final three months, helping kick their offense to another level.

His performance was impressive, not just amongst American League rookies, but on the Astros as well. He led the team with a 173 OPS+, and was fifth in homers and RBI. While he primarily served as the Astros designated hitter in that time, he did perform reasonably well in left, handling all 11 of his chances without error.

Yordan Alvarez made a major contribution to the Astros run to the AL West. That impressive stint is more than enough to win the AL Rookie of the Year award.

Also considered: Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Brandon Lowe

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