List of top 100 performers in the game – MLB 2012 Update - Part 30
58. Craig Kimbrel
Down the stretch in 2010, Craig Kimbrel pitched with control and accuracy, showing the baseball world what he was capable of. All of a sudden, everyone started to talk about the right handed starter as he recorded one of the finest seasons of his career.
Posting an incredible 17.42 K/9 in 40 innings, he looked in prime form as he went on to save many games for the St. Louis Cardinals. The trusted closer squashed any doubts that he could replicate same dominance over a full season as Kimbrel set a new rookie
saves record with 46.
Following his consistent performances in the regular season and playoffs, he won the 2010 NL Rookie of the Year Award. His improved control over his throwing played a crucial role in his success as he reduced his BB/9 from 6.97 in 2010 down to 3.73. His
3.97 K/BB at the end of the season also shows how dominant he was during that period of time.
Considering his closing abilities and control over throwing, he is arguably the most dominant closer in the game. Kimbrel will be looking to maintain his impressive form in 2012 as well. However, his most important goal will be to stay healthy and fit for
the entire season.
59. Brandon Phillips
Since he moved to Cincinnati from Cleveland back in 2006, Brandon Phillips has established himself as one of the most impressive all round second baseman in the game. Born in North Carolina, the player has three Golden Gloves and a 30-30 season to his name.
The style and charisma of his game play is what that makes him so famous among the fans.
2011 saw Phillips taking his game to an entirely new level as he hit 18 home-runs with an outstanding .810 OPS and 82 RBI’s. He was brilliant in the fielding department of the game as his 11.4 Fld was the best among all NL second baseman. Phillips is an
asset both on the field and on the plate when he is healthy and fully fit, single handedly, he can change the picture of the game. The Reds will be looking to capitalise on the advantage of having the most dynamic all rounder in their line-up to make it to
the post-season this season.
60. Rickie Weeks
As the 2009 regular season started, Rickie Weeks looked in commanding form. However, due to a hand injury, he had to miss the last three quarters of the season. Those were disappointing times for Weeks and some started to wonder if he will ever be able to
fulfil his immense potential. But the right hander striker continued to work hard and he bounced back brilliantly in 2010 to register one of his best seasons in Major League Baseball.
He proved his critics wrong with a tremendous 2010 season, hitting the second most home-runs among all second baseman (29 HR). His 6.5 WAR was also the highest among all players at that position. Although he missed a large number of games in 2011, he had
yet another successful season as he participated in the Home Run Derby. In addition to his skills on the plate, the second baseman has improved his defensive game play significantly over the last few years, posting a reasonable 3.4 Fld from 2009-2011.
Continued in Part 31
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