First Half Awards: NL
Posted by Antonio Antenucci on July 13, 2009
With it being a little more than the mid-point for the 2009 baseball season, it’s time for my annual first half awards. We start today with the NL.
MVP: Albert Pujols (STL)- I don’t think there is any surprise here. Pujols has a legitmate shot at the triple crown this year. If he was surrounded by a better lineup, it’s scary to think of the better numbers he might put up.
Cy Young: Dan Haren (ARI)- Another no doubter. He is the best pitcher in all of baseball this season.
Reliever of the Year: Francisco Rodriguez (NYM)- One of the only sure things on the Mets, K-Rod has successfully taken his dominant stuff to the National League. Now, if he just stopped making a fool out of himself with his ridiculous celebrations after saving a game, everything would be perfect.
Rookie of The Year: Cody Rasmus (STL)- This soon to be 23-year old center fielder is coming along very nicely for the Cardinals.
Comeback Player of The Year: Todd Helton (COL)- After a shortned 2008 season, Helton is back to his old self mashing the ball. He is two games away from matching the number of games he played last season.
Manager of The Year: Bruce Bochy (SF)- Coming into the season I knew the Giants pitching would be good, but I didn’t think the Giants had enough in other areas to be competitive. I was wrong as the Giants lead the Wild Card race and are competitive in a pretty tough division this year. Have to give Bochy credit, especially with the offense he has.
