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Around the Diamonds |
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by Adam Geiger the Carillon Shaping up the first half in the world of baseball As July wears on, and the sweltering Saskatchewan heat continues its relentless pursuit of global domination, it’s business as usual in the world of baseball. Aside from the upstart Detroit Tigers, who have vaulted themselves into the upper echelon of Major League Baseball squads, the 2006 campaign has been a relatively safe bet thus far. The AL East, whom many thought would be a three team race following Toronto’s productive off-season, has been exactly that. In the Central, the world champion White Sox have hung with the Tigers, and sit with a comfortable lead in the wildcard standings. As always, the AL West has been a tight race, and will likely come down to the final weekend in October. In the senior circuit, the new and improved Metropolitans have had their way with nearly everyone thrown in their path. Playing in the NL East, which normally reserves the top spot for the Atlanta Braves, New York has jumped out to a nearly insurmountable lead behind the energetic play of youngster David Wright. In the Central, St. Louis seems to have regrouped following a slide in June, and looks poised to capture another division title. Finally, in the West it appears that San Diego has established a fair hold on the top spot, however, that could change as first place and the basement are separated by only four games. With three months remaining until playoffs, it’s time to take a look at the midseason favorites for Major League Baseball’s awards: AL MPV - David Ortiz: Ortiz is quite possibly the most clutch performer in professional sports. Affectionately known as “Big Papi,” the fan favorite has knocked 31 homeruns, and led the Sox to first place in the competitive AL East. NL MVP - Albert Pujols: Even though he’s missed three weeks due to injury, Pujols still leads the National League in homeruns with 30, and sits at third in runs batted in. Sir Albert is well on his way to becoming the best player of our era. AL Cy Young - Roy Halladay: Heading into the All-Star break with the most wins (12) in baseball, Halladay has been the rock in an otherwise shaky Toronto rotation. NL Cy Young - Chris Carpenter: There isn’t a clear cut leader thus far, but Carpenter has been the most consistent and therefore gets the nod. As always, a 2.85 ERA and playing for a first place squad will always help your cause AL Rookie of the Year - Francisco Liriano: Without question, Francisco is the brightest young player in the league. Sitting with a 10-2 record and a 2.12 ERA, the Minnesota Twins have on their hands the games’ next great pitcher. NL Rookie of the Year - Dan Uggla: I have to give props to the little man. Uggla has kept his batting average over .300, and has 13 home runs in pitcher friendly Florida. Enjoy the rest of your summer, sports fans. |