American League Rookie of the Year Power Rankings
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5
Yordan Alvarez, Astros
Alvarez has exploded onto the major-league scene since a June promotion. In just 96 plate appearances, he's already accrued the second-most WAR among AL rookie position players, while his .407 isolated power easily leads rookies. He's only ranked fifth due to a lack of action, but he'll steadily rise if this form contines.
Icon Sportswire / Getty
Icon Sportswire / Getty
4
Spencer Turnbull, Tigers
Turnbull endured a rocky finish to his first half, but he remains on track to produce a solid rookie season. His 0.87 home runs allowed per nine innings is the best among AL rookie starting pitchers, and his ERA+ is better than that of rotation-mate Matthew Boyd.
Mark Cunningham / Getty
Mark Cunningham / Getty
3
Ty Buttrey, Angels
Buttrey's putting together an excellent rookie season out of the bullpen. He's allowed just three homers this year, and is now a top-10 AL reliever by wins above replacement. If the Angels make a run at the playoffs, Buttrey's pitching will be a big reason why.
Icon Sportswire / Getty
Icon Sportswire / Getty
2
Brandon Lowe, Rays
Lowe is due back from the injured list soon, and he's still one of the favorites to take home this award. He remained the AL's rookie home-run leader until finally being passed on Sunday. He can easily reclaim the top spot by getting hot after returning.
Icon Sportswire / Getty
Icon Sportswire / Getty
1
John Means, Orioles
The Orioles' lone All-Star isn't blowing anyone away with strikeout numbers, but he's been the best rookie pitcher in the Junior Circuit by a wide margin and isn't showing signs of slowing.
Rob Carr / Getty
Rob Carr / Getty