Let’s start it off this way, if you were to tell anyone that the Cleveland Indians would be in first place with a 51-32 record, people would probably look at you as if you were crazy. Throw in the fact that the Indians also set a franchise record for the longest win streak of 14 games , people would say that you are an eager Cleveland sports fan. OH YEAH and I forgot to mention that MICHAEL BRANTLEY hasn’t played more than 11 games this season. There are many reasons as to why this is happening, one of them being that players are exceeding expectations and stepping up when needed.
Here are my Top 3 Surprising Players of the First Half.
3.) Lonnie Chisenhall
If early in the first half of 2015 you would have told me that Chisenhall would be playing Right Field, I’d probably give you a funny look. If you would have told me that in 2016 he would be batting over .300 and fitting nicely in the order , I’d possibly bet you he wouldn’t. Thankfully I didn’t bet anyone because if I did, I would be losing that bet. Chisenhall in RF and has shown that he has a great arm for the outfield. Include the fact that he is throwing up number of .311 for an average , 5 homers, and 25 RBIs he is coming along nicely and helping this years Indians out a good amount offensively.
2.) Tyler Naquin
Naquin is easily a surprise. Someone that was sent down back when Brantley was coming back from injury, Naquin is back in the Majors and I think there is a strong possibility that he might stay. Naquin is batting .313 , has hit 7 homers, and has 19 RBIs , oh and by the way he is only a rookie. Naquin might be well known for his golfing homeruns but he is someone to get excited about for the future.
1.) Jose Ramirez
The biggest surprise of the First Half is this man. Ramirez was not expected to do this, this year. The Indians had the idea that if they bring in Juan Uribe, that move can possibly help out Ramirez because he would have a mentor with the same background as him. Jose developed into a utility man this offseason, which the Indians needed with the departure of Mike Aviles. Ramirez is batting .299 , 4 homers, and 34 RBIs , he also has an average of .355 with Runners in Scoring Position.
The First Half has had plenty of surprises and I am sure that the Second Half will also.
Who has been your First Half surprises? Do you agree with me? Tweet at me @PaytonVince and give me your input.
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