Last season, Manny Machado’s partial-year rookie campaign was out-shined by Bryce Harper of the Washington Nationals and Mike Trout of the LA Angels, but he is certainly turning some heads in 2013. Hitting .410 in his last 19 games and .331 on the season, the second year third baseman is making his case for a shot at this year’s All Star Game. Projected for 21 homers and 102 RBIs, Machado has done it all for the Birds including stellar instinctive defense at the hot corner. Watching his savvy, almost veteran approach, is easy on the eye.
The best part? This man is only 20 years old.
His raw power, defense, and ability to get on base aren’t the only attributes that help him win games for the Orioles. With four stolen bases already, he is projected to take 17 bags over the course of the season – very impressive.
As of late, Machado has been tearing up the batter’s box like it is nobody’s business. He is the first player under 21 since 1971 to have three consecutive three-hit games (h/t @masnRoch) and has picked up 17 multi hit games this season. With 14 doubles, he is tied for third in the MLB in doubles (Adam Jones, fellow “O,” and AJ Pollock of the Diamondbacks also have 14). He is also in second place in the MLB in hits with 54, one behind reigning Triple Crown champion Miguel Cabrera.
The hits, defense, and steals are all impressive statistics, but perhaps the best stat is Manny’s WAR (Wins Above Replacement). At 2.2, Manny is not only over Harper’s 1.6 and Trout’s 1.2, but is fourth in the entire MLB!
Watch out baseball fans, because “Mucho” Machado is en el fuego!
