In today’s age of social media and easily accessible knowledge, it’s hard for talented individuals to go unnoticed. This is especially true for professional athletes. If you’re good, people know about it. However, there are still some players who are underrated and having exceptional seasons. In this article, we will highlight six players, one from each division, who are having great seasons but are often overlooked.
Before we begin, there is one ground rule: no 2023 All-Stars. If you were selected to the All-Star Game this season, sorry, but you do not qualify as overlooked. That being said, let’s dive into the standout players from each division.
A year ago, it seemed like Duran was on his way out of Boston. He struggled in the minors and MLB, particularly with elevated fastballs. However, this season he has improved his swing and is now hitting .297/.348/.488 with eight home runs. Duran’s speed has also been a weapon, stealing 23 bases in 25 attempts. While his defense may not be stellar, Duran has emerged as a quality hitter and baserunner.
Honorable mention for the AL East: Kyle Bradish, Baltimore Orioles. Bradish has been impressive, with a 3.18 ERA in 22 starts and 121 2/3 innings pitched this season.
Surprisingly, Marsh has been the Phillies’ best player this season, with a .281/.367/.460 batting line. Despite hitting only eight home runs, Marsh has contributed with doubles, triples, and excellent defense in center field.
Honorable mention for the NL East: Tanner Scott, Miami Marlins. Scott has been dominant as a reliever, with a 3.0 pitching WAR and great control.
In his first full season, Greene has been impressive for the Tigers. He has a .303/.365/.472 slash line with 10 home runs. Greene’s strikeout rate has also improved throughout the season. While his defensive skills may need work, his offensive performance has been noteworthy.
Honorable mention for the AL Central: Ryan Jeffers, Minnesota Twins. Jeffers, despite not being the team’s starting catcher, has been hitting well with a .280/.382/.480 batting line.
Abbott has been outstanding for the Reds this season, despite being called up in June. He ranks among the top NL pitchers in WAR and has consistently delivered quality starts. Abbott’s performance has been overshadowed by the team’s young hitters, but he deserves recognition for his contributions.
Honorable mention for the NL Central: Joel Payamps, Milwaukee Brewers. Payamps has been a reliable reliever, with an impressive 1.79 ERA and impact performances.
Kim has been a standout player for the Padres, with impressive offensive and defensive performances. While WAR may not accurately rank his overall performance due to his versatility on the field, there is no denying that Kim’s contributions have been excellent.
Honorable mention for the NL West: Jason Heyward, Los Angeles Dodgers. Heyward’s play has warranted his consistent presence in the lineup, with solid numbers overall and particularly against right-handed pitchers.
