The AL MVPs
© Greg Spira
Carlos Delgado - Probably created more runs for his team than any other player in baseball, clearly establishing himself as a powerhouse first baseman.
Alex Rodriguez - His combination of offense and defense at shortstop was unmatched by any player in the league.
Nomar Garciaparra - Held the Red Sox offense up all by himself at times, and was behind only Rodriguez as a two way force in the AL
Jason Giambi - Was as productive as any hitter in the league, especially in September when he helped lead the Athletics to the division title
Pedro Martinez - Outclassed the rest of his league's pitchers in ERA by the greatest distance in history.
Frank Thomas - Returned from a 2 year slump to his previous offensive heights and helped carry a group of young talent to an easy AL Central title
Manny Ramirez - His midseason injury almost certainly cost the Indians a postseason slot. When he played, he was probably the best hitter in the game.
The BBWAA will probably select Jason Giambi as its MVP. I can't argue with that choice, but I'd pick two players ahead of him, Martinez and Rodriguez. Martinez simply performed on a different level than anyone in baseball this year, and I think Rodriguez' combination of skills makes him more valuable than anyone who doesn't add a significant defensive contribution.
Rodriguez and Ramirez will both be free agents this winter, and they may be the most enticing free agents we'll ever see on the market. Rodriguez is only 25 and is already the best player in baseball, and Rodriguez, at 28, is probably the best hitter in the game. Both will command princely sums.
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