A few days ago, MLB sent out the three candidates for the awards. Do I agree with them all? No, but do understand why they chose these players, yes.
AL Rookie of the Year
Tanner Bibee– It was great to see Cleveland sprouting another great starting pitcher for the rotation because that is one of the Guardians’ struggles this past year. He came into the league, went 10-4, and put up an ERA of just under 3.00, making him my 3rd place candidate.
Tristan Casas– As a Red Sox fan, I really enjoyed Casas and how he played. In 2022, I went to a Woo Sox game, and I knew he would be called up. Sure Enough, Casas was named a September call up, and ever since he has proved that he belongs as the Red Sox’ starting First Baseman. Stats: .263 Average, 24 HRS, 65 RBI. Because of this, I think Casas should be the AL Rookie of the year in 2023.
Gunnar Henderson- Just like Casas, Henderson was a call up in 2022. In his first full season, he helped the Orioles clinch a playoff berth for the first time since 2016, hitting .255 with 28 homers. Although Gunnar is favored to win ROY, I am picking Casas because he had a full space to shine as one of if not the best Red Sox hitter this year, when Henderson was usually always second or third to Adley Rutchman or Anthony Santander.
NL Rookie of the Year
James Outman
James Outman was great in the outfield, making multiple great catches, but it was hitting that made him a candidate. 23 homers, 86 RBI, and a .246 batting average means he is a very talented player since he missed a lot of games due to injury. I understand why voters chose Outman as one of the three candidates, but I think Nolan Jones would have been a better choice. Because of this, and of how he needs to get his Batting Average up, he is 3rd place on my list.
Kodai Senga
Coming over from Japan definitely helped Senga achieve what he did. Hitters struggled mitaly against Kodai’s Ghost Ball, and all his other pitches. Stats: 12-7 record, 2.98 ERA, 4.5 War. Senga lived up to, and exceeded expectations, and will finish in 2nd place for National League Rookie of the Year.
Corbin Carroll
There is no doubt that Carroll will win the award. He carried his team to the World Series, while leading MLB in triples. Truly a magical year for the Diamondbacks and Corbin Carroll. He hit 25 homers, with a .285 batting average. He fit into the league perfectly, and will win the MVP very soon. For now, he is the NL Rookie of the Year.
Winner: Tristan Casas BOS Winner: Corbin Carroll AZ
I agree with you on most of your picks. As normal, you are usually right