Nelson Cruz – 2011
Nelson Cruz, a prolific power hitter, made his MLB debut in 2005. The late-bloomer could be described as average through his first few full seasons. But then, in the 2010 postseason, Cruz made a name for himself.
Cruz launched six home runs in the 2010 postseason, boosting the Texas Rangers to a World Series appearance. But, in 2011, he did himself one better.
The 2011 postseason started off slow for Cruz. Cruz went homerless and just 1-for-15 in the ALDS. The rest is history.
Cruz took home the 2011 ALCS MVP award after clobbering six home runs against the Detroit Tigers. His six home runs are the most by an individual player in a single postseason series. Cruz knocked two home runs in game two of the ALCS, including a grand slam.
Throughout the postseason, Cruz hit .226 with eight home runs, 16 RBIs, and a .645 slugging percentage. Unfortunately, the Cardinals topped Texas in seven games during the 2011 World Series.