Hanley Ramirez: Florida Silver Man

The 2010 season has not started yet, but all kind of predictions can be read these days.

One that could be right is Hanley Ramirez's ability to repeat as National League batting champion. He was the senior circuit king of batters last season with a .342 average in 2009.

The two-time All-Star Florida Marlins shortstop has been silent all winter long, and word from his native Dominican Republic is that he has been working out harder with one purpose.

More than awards and honors, he wants to help carry his team to the postseason.

The 26-year-old has said in a few interviews that he truly believes his Marlins can be a contender this season in the National League East Division and at least be a wild card ball club.

Among numerous recognitions received last season, Ramirez mentioned in those interviews his appreciation to his second consecutive Silver Slugger Award won last winter.

For the 2006 National League Rookie of the Year, this award recognized him as the best offensive shortstop in the game.

The award presented by Louisville Slugger since 1980 is given by a vote of managers and coaches for the players they feel are the best offensive producers at each field position in the American and National leagues.

Ramirez is known to be quiet and tranquil, but nobody should be surprised if he achieves his third Silver Slugger and possibly his first league Most Valuable Player award this season.

Lets not forget that in 2009, Ramirez could have possibly been the league NL MVP if not for Albert Pujols. Ramirez was second in the voting.

Ramirez has been in the top 12 vote getters for the NL MVP accolade the last three seasons.

It will be seen if his desires come true this upcoming season.

His franchise has the same desire. The Marlins love Ramirez, and they want to move to their new stadium in 2012 with another championship in their history.

Extra

Latino Winners of the most Silver Sluggers at his position:

Catcher—Ivan Rodriguez / 3

First Base—Carlos Delgado; Albert Pujols / 3

Second Base—Roberto Alomar; Julio Franco / 4

Third Base—Vinny Castilla; Alex Rodriguez / 3

Shortstop—Alex Rodriguez / 7

Outfield—Manny Ramirez / 8

Designated Hitter—Edgar Martinez; David Ortiz / 4

Pitcher—Carlos Zambrano / 3