Three Blue Jays Named Finalists for Silver Slugger Awards

[Leo Morgenstern]

Three Blue Jays hitters were named finalists for Silver Slugger Awards today, and let's be honest, you probably don't need this article to tell you who they are. But I'm going to tell you anyway:

• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is a finalist at first base, alongside Nick Kurtz of the Athletics and Vinnie Pasquantino of the Royals.
• Bo Bichette is a finalist at shortstop, alongside Jeremy Peña of the Astros and Bobby Witt Jr. of the Royals.
• Finally, George Springer is a finalist at DH, alongside Yandy Díaz of the Rays and Brent Rooker of the Athletics. Springer is also a finalist for one of three Silver Sluggers in the outfield, alongside Cody Bellinger of the Yankees, Byron Buxton of the Twins, Riley Greene of the Tigers, Aaron Judge of the Yankees, and Julio Rodríguez of the Mariners.

All three of Toronto's finalists had strong years at the plate, but only Springer is a good bet to take home the prize (indeed, he's likely to take home two). Kurtz is the heavy favourite at first base after his remarkable rookie season. The competition is closer at shortstop, but Witt has the edge in most counting stat categories.

Springer, however, should easily win the Silver Slugger after leading AL DHs in home runs (32), batting average (.309), wRC+ (166), and xwOBA (.417), as well as stolen bases (18). He also has a strong case in the outfield; among primary AL outfielders, only Judge finished with a higher OPS or wRC+. Do I think it's a silly system in which Springer could win at both positions? Yes, without a doubt. But I'm not going to complain about Blue Jays winning major awards. 

The Blue Jays, collectively, were also named finalists for the team Silver Slugger Award, alongside the Mariners and Yankees.

AL Silver Sluggers winners will be revealed on November 7 at 6:00 pm. 

Featured image courtesy of Jay Biggerstaff, Imagn Images.

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