There is a little over a month left in the MLB regular season and the National League Rookie of the Year race has come down to two individuals—Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig and Miami Marlins starting pitcher Jose Fernandez.
The two young stars have done their share to wow fans and frustrate opposing managers and although you can make a strong case for the phenomenon that is Yasiel Puig, the ROY award needs to go to Fernandez.
Puig (.348/12/29) helped spark the ridiculous run the Dogders have been on as they continue to lead the National League West. He has shown he can hit anyone, comes up clutch in the big moments and is an outstanding fielder. However, overshadowed in Puig’s excellence since he came to the big leagues is the excellence of his teammate Hanley Ramirez (.348/12/40). Both players have been dominant since June, both have had their cold spells and both are in the conversation for the Dodgers most valuable (position) player.
Also, there’s the fact Puig missed a month and a half of the season.
There is no debating two things about Fernandez’s season—he’s been the best player on his team and he’s been here the entire season.
Oh, and there’s also how dominant he’s been (9-5/2.41/156 SO). In addition to the most popular stats, here are some others you might not know.
The 21-year old has a WHIP of 1.02—meaning he has outstanding control for a rookie. Out of his 24 starts Fernandez has allowed more than three runs a grand total of three times. Also, 17 of his starts have been quality starts.
Although Puig has been dominant, there is little that can beat the consistency with which Fernandez has performed. His only crime? Being on a team with little to no talent.
*Stats according to ESPN
