Gaby Sanchez Gets His Due

I’m really tired of the Florida Marlins’ Gaby Sanchez not getting recognition.  The guy is an absolute player.  He may not have the name recognition, strut, or build of a star but, his numbers, production, and age point toward excellence.  At 6’1, 225 pounds and only 28 years old, Sanchez has already put together a very solid rookie season and is developing into a legitimate player for the Marlins.

He put together a really good year in 2010 but it seemed that those who truly followed the game knew what he was doing in South Florida. He finished fourth in the Rookie of the Year voting despite 156 hits, 19 homeruns, and 85 RBI: all rookie highs. But is there anyone paying attention to what he’s doing in 2011?  Batting .302, with 13 homers, 45 RBI and a .879 OPS.

He’s

• 6th in WAR for NL position players,
• 7th in hits,
• 8th in total bases,
• 10th in RBI and
• hasn’t missed a game.

But, what are the odds he makes the All Star team? 2%?

Sanchez’s short swing and University of Miami background makes him a quieter prospect than most.  His demeanor and position on the field (1B) detract from his star power.  And its not like he does anything fantastically.  Gaby Sanchez does a ton of things well and its time we recognize, appreciate and maybe give the Miami native a hug.  He should be the adored son in Miami: grew up there, went to college there, is a successful Major Leaguer there. Oh wait, I forgot that people in Miami don’t care about baseball.  Some of the rest of us do, and we’ll appreciate Gaby.  He’s finally getting his due, and I’m giving it to him.

Stat of the Day: 5 people have 1.000 averages for the year. They’re all pitchers and are lead by Brad Badenhop’s 2 for 2.

-Sean Morash