Best of 2007: The Emergence of the Canadian Superstar in MLB

While any of the well known Canadian All-Stars could have taken this title, one of the most truly exciting performances by a Canadian in the MLB has to go to Russell Martin of the LA Dodgers.

It was a banner year for the Montreal catcher, and the accolades came pouring in. Martin was selected to be the starting catcher in the All-Star game, then proceeded to win both the Silver Slugger and Gold Glove in the NL. Martin topped it all off by bringing home the Tip O'Neill Award as the best Canadian player in the game.

And the truly exciting part is that all Martin's success came in only his second year in the league. 

 
Admittedly, in a wild and crazy 2007, maybe the success of these Canadians isn't the "Story of the Year". After all: these accomplishments may seem like a drop in the bucket when compared to American or Dominican baseball fans, who have endless numbers of all-stars and players to cheer on.

But to the Canadian baseball fan, this season was a substantial step in the right direction, as it not only gave fans something to get excited about, but also helped to put a focus on Canada as a legitimate pool for baseball talent.

Remember, it's not winter all the time up north. Sure, Canadians like to play with their sticks and pucks when they can—but when the ice melts and the sun starts to shine, look out, because these guys know how to bring it on the diamond as well.

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