MLB's 10 Most Valuable Players

WAR (Wins Above Replacement) is a statistic often used to determine the value of a player based on their position, offensive production, and defense. Here are the Major League's 10 Most Valuable Players based on the WAR they have produced.

10. Miguel Cabrera

At number 10 is Miguel Cabrera, who has been a force at the plate batting .337 with 28 HR and 96 RBI. For a good part of the year, he was a legitimate triple crown candidate. His value, however, is limited by sub-par defense and the fact that he plays 1B (not a highly coveted position). 

9. Evan Longoria

Evan Longoria has developed into a premier third baseman, playing good defense, running the bases with speed (15 stolen bases), and mashing at the plate (.289, 15 HR, 76 RBI). 

8. Albert Pujols

There's no question that Albert Pujols is one of the most valuable players in the majors. He is a consistent threat at the plate, batting .315 with 31 HR and 80 RBI. He can even steal bases (11 SB so far). His value, however, is limited by the fact that he plays 1B. He does play above average defense, though. 

7. Robinson Cano

Robinson Cano has developed into the most valuable second baseman in baseball, batting .322 with 22 HR and 78 RBI. He's also improved his defense over the past few years to the point where it is now above average. 

6. Andres Torres

Andres Torres is undoubtedly the biggest surprise on this list. He offers a lot of value, though, as he is a five-tool player. He's got an arm, he covers great range in the outfield, he can steal bases (23 SB), and he's put up an impressive slash line of .288/.369/.496.

5. Joey Votto

Although his value is limited by the fact that he plays 1B, Joey Votto is among the top five most valuable players in the majors, putting up a slash line of .324/.423/.593, stealing nine bases, and playing above average defense. 

4. Adrian Beltre

Adrian Beltre is enjoying an incredible comeback year, putting up a slash line of .327/.365/.563; his defense has also been great as usual. 

3. Carl Crawford

At number three is the Rays' spark plug: Carl Crawford. He can play amazing defense, steal bases (39 SB), hit for contact (.302), and hit for power (14 HR). 

2. Ryan Zimmerman

It is an atrocity that Ryan Zimmerman didnj't make the all-star team. He has been the second most valuable player in the majors, playing above average defense at 3B and batting .302 with 24 HR.

1. Josh Hamilton

Josh Hamilton has become MLB's MVP, batting .359 with 26 HR, stealing 8 bases, and saving a few runs with his glove (UZR of 5.8).