MLB All-Star Rosters 2012: The Real AL and NL Rosters

The 2012 MLB All-Star rosters were announced Sunday, and once again there are players who shouldn't even be on the team, but are starting (I'm looking at you Buster Posey, Dan Uggla, Pablo Sandoval, Matt Kemp, Mike Napoli and Derek Jeter).

This bumps other more deserving players from the roster. The slideshow you are about to see is this writer's opinion on who should be starting and who should fill out each roster.  I followed the MLB rules of 34-man rosters and having at least one representative from each major league ball club.  I stuck to the 12 reserve pitchers and 12 reserve position players as well.  Statistics are updated through July 1. 

National League Starting Catcher: Carlos Ruiz

Philadelphia Phillies

Ruiz is having a career-year even as the Phillies struggle. He already has hit the most home runs in a single season for his career and his batting average is off the charts as he leads the NL.  While his defense isn't as good as Yadier Molina, his eye-popping hitting stats put him in as the starter. 

Runs: 38

Hits: 82

Doubles: 19

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 11

Runs Batted In: 43

Stolen Bases: 3

Batting Average: .358

On-Base Percentage: .423

Slugging Percentage: .585

National League Starting First Baseman: Joey Votto

Cincinnati Reds

Probably the easiest starter to pick on both rosters, Votto is my vote for the first half NL MVP.  He currently leads the NL in doubles, walks, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage.  His hefty new contract hasn't seemed to distract the man they call Votto-matic.

Runs: 50

Hits: 93

Doubles: 33

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 14

Runs Batted In: 47

Stolen Bases: 4

Batting Average: .350

On-Base Percentage: .471

Slugging Percentage: .632

National League Starting Second Baseman: Jose Altuve

Houston Astros

He doesn't get a lot of attention playing for the Astros, but Altuve is one of the brightest young players in the league.  The second base spot in the NL could have gone a few ways but Altuve has really shined in his first full year in the big leagues.  While Houston may not have a lot of wins, he is what makes the team go.

Runs: 45

Hits: 88

Doubles: 18

Triples: 4

Home Runs: 5

Runs Batted In: 23

Stolen Bases: 12

Batting Average: .309

On-Base Percentage: .351

Slugging Percentage: .453

National League Starting Third Baseman: David Wright

New York Mets

After having a bit of a down year last year, Wright has seen a resurgence in his game and has helped the Mets to a surprisingly fast start.  Wright's hot start could lead him to his first ever batting title. 

Runs: 52

Hits: 97

Doubles: 26

Triples: 2

Home Runs: 9

Runs Batted In: 50

Stolen Bases: 8

Batting Average: .355

On-Base Percentage: .449

Slugging Percentage: .564

National League Starting Shortstop: Starlin Castro

Chicago Cubs

Another guy that doesn't necessarily get the credit he deserves because of the poor play of his team, Castro is having another fine season for the Cubs and should be on his second All-Star team at the age of 22.  

Runs: 36

Hits: 94

Doubles: 10

Triples: 7

Home Runs: 6

Runs Batted In: 40

Stolen Bases: 16

Batting Average: .298

On-Base Percentage: .319

Slugging Percentage: .432

National League Starting Left Fielder: Ryan Braun

Milwaukee Brewers

The reigning NL MVP is having another stellar season even after the controversy of alleged use of performance enhancers.  Many wondered if the loss of Prince Fielder would affect Braun's production, but he keeps on hitting as he currently leads the NL in home runs.  

Runs: 49

Hits: 86

Doubles: 12

Triples: 2

Home Runs: 22

Runs Batted In: 55

Stolen Bases: 13

Batting Average: .313

On-Base Percentage: .394

Slugging Percentage: .611

National League Starting Center Fielder: Andrew McCutchen

Pittsburgh Pirates

Simply one of the best five-tool players in baseball, "Cutch" seems to get better every year.  He is the heart and soul of the surprising Pirates and should be a cornerstone for the franchise for years to come.

Runs: 47

Hits: 97

Doubles: 16

Triples: 4

Home Runs: 15

Runs Batted In: 51

Stolen Bases: 14

Batting Average: .346

On-Base Percentage: .401

Slugging Percentage: .593

National League Starting Right Fielder: Carlos Gonzalez

Colorado Rockies

Another young five-tool player, "CarGo" has blossomed into one of the most exciting players in the senior circuit.  He currently leads the NL in runs scored and in total bases.

Runs: 59

Hits: 97

Doubles: 18

Triples: 4

Home Runs: 17

Runs Batted In: 58

Stolen Bases: 10

Batting Average: .337

On-Base Percentage: .394

Slugging Percentage: .604

National League Starting Designated Hitter: Carlos Beltran

St. Louis Cardinals

Last year, Beltran bounced back nicely after two injury-filled seasons and this year he seems to be getting even better.  In his first year with the Cardinals he has been the replacement the team has needed for the departed Albert Pujols as he leads the NL in runs batted in.

Runs: 48

Hits: 84

Doubles: 10

Triples: 1

Home Runs: 20

Runs Batted In: 61

Stolen Bases: 7

Batting Average: .310

On-Base Percentage: .396

Slugging Percentage: .576

National League Starting Pitcher: R.A. Dickey

New York Mets

What can you say about this guy—a 37-year-old knuckleball pitcher who is having an out-of-this-world season as he leads the NL in wins, win percentage, complete games, shutouts and WHIP.  This amazin' Met is the most amazin' story so far and should tow the rubber for the National League.

Wins: 12

Losses: 1

ERA: 2.15

Complete Games: 3

Shutouts: 2

Strikeouts: 116

WHIP: 0.885

National League Reserve: Yadier Molina

St. Louis Cardinals

You're really splitting hairs when trying to decide between Molina and Ruiz to start.  Molina is already easily the best defensive catcher in the game and his offense is getting better and better every year.

Runs: 33

Hits: 80

Doubles: 15

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 12

Runs Batted In: 44

Stolen Bases: 7

Batting Average: .311

On-Base Percentage: .362

Slugging Percentage: .510

National League Reserve: Paul Goldschmidt

Arizona Diamondbacks

"Goldy" started a bit slow this season but has really taken off in the past couple of months and his showing why he is considered one of the best young first basemen in all of baseball.

Runs: 34

Hits: 66

Doubles: 21

Triples: 1

Home Runs: 11

Runs Batted In: 35

Stolen Bases: 6

Batting Average: .293

On-Base Percentage: .369

Slugging Percentage: .542

National League Reserve: Aaron Hill

Arizona Diamondbacks

The man who hit two cycles in the span of a week is having an impressive first full season in the dessert and is on pace for career numbers after an extremely disappointing year last season.  

Runs: 35

Hits: 84

Doubles: 17

Triples: 5

Home Runs: 11

Runs Batted In: 38

Stolen Bases: 7

Batting Average: .301

On-Base Percentage: .362

Slugging Percentage: .516

National League Reserve: Chase Headley

San Diego Padres

He probably wouldn't have made the team if it wasn't for the rule that every franchise gets a representative. Headley is having a fine season nonetheless.  His stats would probably be even better if he wasn't hitting in the pitching haven of Petco Park.

Runs: 37

Hits: 77

Doubles: 17

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 8

Runs Batted In: 38

Stolen Bases: 10

Batting Average: .271

On-Base Percentage: .369

Slugging Percentage: .415

National League Reserve: Ian Desmond

Washington Nationals

Could be a bit of a surprising pick to some, but Desmond brings a ton of versatility to the young and upcoming Nationals.

Runs: 39

Hits: 88

Doubles: 23

Triples: 2

Home Runs: 13

Runs Batted In: 43

Stolen Bases: 8

Batting Average: .276

On-Base Percentage: .305

Slugging Percentage: .483

National League Reserve: Matt Holliday

St. Louis Cardinals

One of the most consistent hitters of the past decade, Holliday once again is putting up a fantastic season as he tries to lead the Cards to back-to-back titles.

Runs: 51

Hits: 89

Doubles: 18

Triples: 1

Home Runs: 12

Runs Batted In: 48

Stolen Bases: 3

Batting Average: .307

On-Base Percentage: .389

Slugging Percentage: .500

National League Reserve: Melky Cabrera

San Francisco Giants

"Leche" has brought a much needed spark to the offense of the Giants as he has thrived in his first year on the bay.  He currently leads the NL in hits.  

Runs: 53

Hits: 109

Doubles: 16

Triples: 7

Home Runs: 7

Runs Batted In: 38

Stolen Bases: 10

Batting Average: .350

On-Base Percentage: .393

Slugging Percentage: .514

National League Reserve: Michael Bourn

Atlanta Braves

The speedy Bourn is having a fantastic season and has really blossomed into a great all-around player since coming to Atlanta.  He is even starting to show some pop in the bat as his current season total in home runs is equal to his last three years combined.  

Runs: 52

Hits: 100

Doubles: 15

Triples: 4

Home Runs: 7

Runs Batted In: 29

Stolen Bases: 22

Batting Average: .307

On-Base Percentage: .355

Slugging Percentage: .442

National League Reserve: Hunter Pence

Philadelphia Phillies

The Phillies have really struggled this year, but Pence has been a consistent bat throughout.  As teammates Chase Utley and Ryan Howard come back from injury, you could see a boost in Pence's already valuable numbers.

Runs: 56

Hits: 90

Doubles: 15

Triples: 2

Home Runs: 16

Runs Batted In: 48

Stolen Bases: 4

Batting Average: .286

On-Base Percentage: .351

Slugging Percentage: .498

National League Reserve: Martin Prado

Atlanta Braves

Prado is rarely talked about, but his consistent bat and ability to play multiple positions has gone a long way in Atlanta's success.

Runs: 45

Hits: 94

Doubles: 21

Triples: 3

Home Runs: 5

Runs Batted In: 31

Stolen Bases: 9

Batting Average: .323

On-Base Percentage: .387

Slugging Percentage: .467

National League Reserve: Rafael Furcal

St. Louis Cardinals

Furcal has seen his career bounce back this season with the reigning champs and is once again showing why he was once considered one of the best shortstops in the game.

Runs: 52

Hits: 84

Doubles: 12

Triples: 1

Home Runs: 5

Runs Batted In: 31

Stolen Bases: 9

Batting Average: .280

On-Base Percentage: .346

Slugging Percentage: .377

National League Reserve: Giancarlo Stanton

Miami Marlins

Stanton could very easily be the most powerful player in the game and he's only 22.  While the Marlins haven't quite lived up to expectations, "Bigfoot" is starting to make a name for himself.

Runs: 44

Hits: 78

Doubles: 19

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 18

Runs Batted In: 49

Stolen Bases: 5

Batting Average: .283

On-Base Percentage: .363

Slugging Percentage: .547

National League Reserve: Matt Cain

San Francisco Giants

Cain has been a workhorse this year leading the NL in shutouts and innings pitched.  His spectacular perfect game was one of the best pitching performances of the past 25 years.

Wins: 9

Losses: 3

ERA: 2.53

Complete Games: 2

Shut-Outs: 2

Strikeouts: 114

WHIP: 0.950

National League Reserve: Stephen Strasburg

Washington Nationals

This young phenom hasn't disappointed and all fears after coming back from injury seem to be a thing of the past.  Strasburg currently leads the NL in strikeouts.

Wins: 9

Losses: 3

ERA: 2.81

Complete Games: 0

Shutouts: 0

Strikeouts: 122

WHIP: 1.075

National League Reserve: Madison Bumgarner

San Francisco Giants

Another Giants pitcher that is really delivering this year, Bumgarner is starting to figure things out and seems to be on the path to becoming one of the top pitchers in baseball for years to come.

Wins: 10

Losses: 4

ERA: 2.85

Complete Games: 1

Shutouts: 1

Strikeouts: 92

WHIP: 1.057

National League Reserve: Cole Hamels

Philadelphia Phillies

While Hamels may have made headlines this year for his plunking of rookie Bryce Harper, his pitching is what people should be reading about as he has done his best to keep the Phillies afloat.

Wins: 10

Losses: 4

ERA: 3.08

Complete Games: 0

Shutouts: 0

Strikeouts: 111

WHIP: 1.099

National League Reserve: Gio Gonzalez

Washington Nationals

The question always seemed to be what Gio could do with a better team around him.  Well the answer seems to be clear as he is having a career year and seems to be settling in nicely with his new team.

Wins: 10

Losses: 3

ERA: 2.78

Complete Games: 0

Shutouts: 0

Strikeouts: 108

WHIP: 1.081

National League Reserve: Zack Greinke

Milwaukee Brewers

While the Brew Crew may be a bit of a disappointment, the same cannot be said for Greinke.  Zack has been stellar and while trade talks surround him, he may be too valuable for Milwaukee to trade. 

Wins: 9

Losses: 2

ERA: 2.82

Complete Games: 0

Shutouts: 0

Strikeouts: 102

WHIP: 1.167

National League Reserve: Johnny Cueto

Cincinnati Reds 

Cueto seems to have hit his stride this year after showing a few years of potential.  The ace status can be given to Cueto as he leads a youthful pitching staff that is getting better and better.

Wins: 9

Losses: 4

ERA: 2.26

Complete Games: 2

Shutouts: 0

Strikeouts: 79

WHIP: 1.142

National League Reserve: Wade Miley

Arizona Diamondbacks

The rookie Miley has been dazzling and has been the best pitcher for the D-Backs this year, which is impressive with the likes of Ian Kennedy on their team.  Miley very easily could be the NL Rookie of the Year so far.

Wins: 9

Losses: 4

ERA: 2.87

Complete Games: 0

Shutouts: 0

Strikeouts: 66

WHIP: 1.064

National League Reserve: Clayton Kershaw

Los Angeles Dodgers

The reigning NL Cy Young award winner may not be having quite as good of a season as last year, but he is still having a nice start as his Dodgers have been one of the more surprising teams in baseball.  

Wins: 5

Losses: 4

ERA: 2.74

Complete Games: 1

Shutouts: 1

Strikeouts: 103

WHIP: 1.043

National League Reserve: Chris Capuano

Los Angeles Dodgers

Kershaw's teammate Capuano is having a fine season of his own.  Capuano has always shown flashes, but the numbers he is putting up this year have been a nice surprise for the Dodgers.

Wins: 9

Losses: 3

ERA: 2.69

Complete Games: 0

Shutouts: 0

Strikeouts: 89

WHIP: 1.096

National League Reserve: Craig Kimbrel

Atlanta Braves

The reigning NL Rookie of the Year isn't slowing down in his second year and seems to just be getting better. Kimbrel currently leads the NL in saves.

Saves: 23

ERA: 1.50

Strikeouts: 50

WHIP: 0.767

National League Reserve: Joel Hanrahan

Pittsburgh Pirates

Since becoming a closer, this hard thrower has piled up the saves and continues to anchor the back of the up-and-coming bullpen in Pittsburgh.

Saves: 20

ERA: 2.10

Strikeouts: 35

WHIP: 1.067

American League Starting Catcher: Joe Mauer

Minnesota Twins

Mauer may never put up the numbers he did in his MVP season, but he can still be as valuable as any catcher in the game.  He currently leads the AL in on-base percentage.

Runs: 37

Hits: 82

Doubles: 17

Triples: 1

Home Runs: 4

Runs Batted In: 36

Stolen Bases: 3

Batting Average: .325

On-Base Percentage: .416

Slugging Percentage: .448

American League Starting First Baseman: Prince Fielder

Detroit Tigers

Fielder's power numbers are down a bit, but he seems to be enjoying his time in the AL as he is having another great season.  As he gets used to AL pitching the power numbers should rise.

Runs: 42

Hits: 86

Doubles: 18

Triples: 1

Home Runs: 12

Runs Batted In: 52

Stolen Bases: 1

Batting Average: .294

On-Base Percentage: .371

Slugging Percentage: .485

American League Starting Second Baseman: Robinson Cano

New York Yankees

Cano is having a standout season once again as he searches for that first MVP award.  Being the most valuable player on a club like the Yankees isn't easy, but that is exactly the role he has assumed in New York.

Runs: 54

Hits: 92

Doubles: 23

Triples: 1

Home Runs: 19

Runs Batted In: 44

Stolen Bases: 1

Batting Average: .308

On-Base Percentage: .370

Slugging Percentage: .582

American League Starting Third Baseman: Miguel Cabrera

Detroit Tigers

Arguably the best hitter in the league, Miggy doesn't seem to be slowing down as he leads the AL in hits.  While he isn't the greatest defender in the world, the move to third base hasn't been nearly as bad as some thought it would be.

Runs: 45

Hits: 99

Doubles: 23

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 16

Runs Batted In: 62

Stolen Bases: 3

Batting Average: .315

On-Base Percentage: .376

Slugging Percentage: .541

American League Starting Shortstop: Elvis Andrus

Texas Rangers

Andrus is turning into a star down in Texas and he provides a spark to the deadly Rangers lineup.  Andrus has blazing speed as he leads the AL in triples.

Runs: 51

Hits: 92

Doubles: 19

Triples: 5

Home Runs: 1

Runs Batted In: 31

Stolen Bases: 16

Batting Average: .305

On-Base Percentage: .481

Slugging Percentage: .411

American League Starting Left Fielder: Josh Hamilton

Texas Rangers

Once again Hamilton is showing his ridiculous all-around talent and is my vote for first half AL MVP.  He currently leads the AL in runs batted in, slugging percentage and total bases.

Runs: 51

Hits: 88

Doubles: 15

Triples: 1

Home Runs: 25

Runs Batted In: 73

Stolen Bases: 6

Batting Average: .319

On-Base Percentage: .385

Slugging Percentage: .652

American League Starting Center Fielder: Adam Jones

Baltimore Orioles

The talent has always been there, the question was whether he could mature enough to apply that talent.  Jones seems to have figured things out and is having a spectacular season for the surprising Orioles.

Runs: 51

Hits: 92

Doubles: 17

Triples: 2

Home Runs: 19

Runs Batted In: 41

Stolen Bases: 10

Batting Average: .300

On-Base Percentage: .343

Slugging Percentage: .554

American League Starting Right Fielder: Mike Trout

Los Angeles Angels

Bryce Harper may get more attention, but the 20-year-old Trout seems to be the better all-around player so far.  Trout is easily the AL Rookie of the Year as he leads the AL in stolen bases and batting average.

Runs: 48

Hits: 78

Doubles: 14

Triples: 3

Home Runs: 8

Runs Batted In: 32

Stolen Bases: 22

Batting Average: .336

On-Base Percentage: .391

Slugging Percentage: .526

American League Starting Designated Hitter: David Ortiz

Boston Red Sox

"Big Papi" may be getting better with age as he has had what could be his best first half ever.  Ortiz anchors the Red Sox lineup and has helped keep them afloat among all the injuries.

Runs: 57

Hits: 86

Doubles: 24

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 21

Runs Batted In: 53

Stolen Bases: 0

Batting Average: .305

On-Base Percentage: .393

Slugging Percentage: .613

American League Starting Pitcher: Justin Verlander

Detroit Tigers

The reigning AL MVP and CY Young award winner is having another stellar year and while the win-loss record isn't quite as good, the rest of the stats are right in line with last year.  

JV's wicked arsenal should give the AL the best chance in early innings, which goes towards the reasoning of having him start. Verlander currently leads the AL in complete games and strikeouts

Wins: 8

Losses: 5

ERA: 2.69

Complete Games: 4

Shutouts: 1

Strikeouts: 121

WHIP: 0.978

American League Reserve: A.J. Pierzynski

Chicago White Sox

Pierzynski is quietly having the best season of his career and has offered Paul Konerko protection in the lineup.  A.J. has been around for a while now and this first half has been a bit of a surprise.

Runs: 36

Hits: 69

Doubles: 8

Triples: 3

Home Runs: 14

Runs Batted In: 45

Stolen Bases: 0

Batting Average: .285

On-Base Percentage: .332

Slugging Percentage: .517

American League Reserve: Paul Konerko

Chicago White Sox

Konerko has been a huge reason why the White Sox are in first place as he seems to get better with age.  After having a great season last year some wondered if it was a fluke and if he would come back down to Earth.  "Paulie" is showing that it was anything but a fluke.

Runs: 38

Hits: 87

Doubles: 15

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 14

Runs Batted In: 40

Stolen Bases: 0

Batting Average: .336

On-Base Percentage: .413

Slugging Percentage: .556

American League Reserve: Ian Kinsler

Texas Rangers

Kinsler has always been one of the better second basemen around, but injuries always seem to nag him.  He is showing what he can do when healthy once again as he leads the AL in runs and doubles.

Runs: 60

Hits: 92

Doubles: 25

Triples: 3

Home Runs: 9

Runs Batted In: 40

Stolen Bases: 15

Batting Average: .276

On-Base Percentage: .336

Slugging Percentage: .450

American League Reserve: Adrian Beltre

Texas Rangers

Ever since Beltre has gotten away from Safeco Field he has become the hitter people have expected him to be.  Pair that with his outstanding defense and you have one of the best all-around players in the game.

Runs: 45

Hits: 95

Doubles: 18

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 14

Runs Batted In: 52

Stolen Bases: 1

Batting Average: .328

On-Base Percentage: .360

Slugging Percentage: .534

American League Reserve: Mike Aviles

Boston Red Sox

Aviles seems to like hitting in Boston's lineup as he is showing that his bat isn't one to be taken lightly.  A few years ago he showed his potential with Kansas City, but injuries seemed to derail his rise. This year he is showing that potential once again.

Runs: 39

Hits: 81

Doubles: 20

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 9

Runs Batted In: 43

Stolen Bases: 9

Batting Average: .266

On-Base Percentage: .285

Slugging Percentage: .420

American League Reserve: Mark Trumbo

Los Angeles Angels

Trumbo seemed to come out of nowhere in his rookie season last year.  This year he looks even more impressive and has become one of the most deadly hitters in baseball.

Runs: 37

Hits: 81

Doubles: 15

Triples: 3

Home Runs: 19

Runs Batted In: 53

Stolen Bases: 4

Batting Average: .313

On-Base Percentage: .363

Slugging Percentage: .614

American League Reserve: Jose Bautista

Toronto Blue Jays

How can such a small frame have so much power?  "Joey Bats" is tearing the cover off the ball once again for Toronto as he leads the AL in home runs.

Runs: 56

Hits: 68

Doubles: 10

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 26

Runs Batted In: 62

Stolen Bases: 4

Batting Average: .239

On-Base Percentage: .359

Slugging Percentage: .549

American League Reserve: Curtis Granderson

New York Yankees

Granderson's hard play has always been there, but since joining New York his power has taken off.  Once again Curtis is crushing the ball and showing a reliable glove in the field.

Runs: 54

Hits: 74

Doubles: 9

Triples: 1

Home runs: 23

Runs Batted In: 46

Stolen Bases: 6

Batting Average: .245

On-Base Percentage: .347

Slugging Percentage: .510

American League Reserve: Edwin Encarnacion

Toronto Blue Jays

Every year we hear about how much power this guy has and now with regular at bats, we are starting to see it.  Encarnacion could be Toronto's MVP so far, which is saying something since his teammate leads the league in home runs.

Runs: 50

Hits: 82

Doubles: 14

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 22

Runs Batted In: 55

Stolen Bases: 8

Batting Average: .289

On-Base Percentage: .365

Slugging Percentage: .570

American League Reserve: Austin Jackson

Detroit Tigers

Jackson had a DL stint, which is why his numbers are a bit lower than others, but he is what makes the Tigers tick.  While the Tigers have struggled, they are playing better as of late and when Jackson has a good game, Detroit follows suit.

Runs: 45

Hits: 71

Doubles: 16

Triples: 3

Home Runs: 8

Runs Batted In: 34

Stolen Bases: 7

Batting Average: .326

On-Base Percentage: .408

Slugging Percentage: .537

American League Reserve: Jason Kipnis

Cleveland Indians

Many don't even know who Kipnis is, but he has helped Cleveland to a nice start and could be a cornerstone for the young franchise.  While the media attention may not be there, Kipnis still deserves a spot on this team.

Runs: 47

Hits: 84

Doubles: 7

Triples: 3

Home Runs: 11

Runs Batted In: 46

Stolen Bases: 19

Batting Average: .275

On-Base Percentage: .335

Slugging Percentage: .426

American League Reserve: Mike Moustakas

Kansas City Royals

The lone representative for the hosting city, Moustakas is showing why he was one of the highest rated prospects in baseball a year ago.  Not only is he showing the batting skills, but the defensive talent is impressive as well.

Runs: 37

Hits: 71

Doubles: 17

Triples: 0

Home Runs: 13

Runs Batted In: 38

Stolen Bases: 2

Batting Average: .264

On-Base Percentage: .331

Slugging Percentage: .472

American League Reserve: Chris Sale

Chicago White Sox

Sale could be the starter for the All-Star team and I would have no problem with that, I just feel JV gives them a better chance.  That being said, Sale could very well be the Cy Young of the first half as he leads the AL in ERA.

Wins: 9

Losses: 2

ERA: 2.27

Complete Games: 1

Shutouts: 0

Strikeouts: 94

WHIP: 0.965

American League Reserve: David Price

Tampa Bay Rays

Price is quickly becoming one of the best southpaws in the game and is showing why he was once considered the best prospect in baseball.  He currently leads the AL in wins.  

Wins: 11

Losses: 4

ERA: 2.92

Complete Games: 1

Shutouts: 1

Strikeouts: 97

WHIP: 1.223

American League Reserve: Jake Peavy

Chicago White Sox

Remember the NL Cy Young award winner from 2007? Well it was Jake Peavy and he seems to be back.  Now that he is finally healthy again Peavy is showing that he is still one of the best around as he leads the AL in complete games.

Wins: 6

Losses: 5

ERA: 2.96

Complete Games: 4

Shutouts: 1

Strikeouts: 101

WHIP: 0.994

American League Reserve: Jered Weaver

Los Angeles Angels

The highlight of the year for Weaver was his no-hitter, but he has been consistently good throughout the year once again.  The runner-up for the Cy Young currently has the best win percentage in the AL.

Wins: 8

Losses: 1

ERA: 2.31

Complete Games: 2

Shutouts: 1

Strikeouts: 66

WHIP: 0.918

American League Reserve: Matt Harrison

Texas Rangers

Harrison doesn't get a lot of recognition.  All he does is go out there every fifth day and win.  He's currently tied for the AL lead in wins and has been the most consistent pitcher for the Rangers.

Wins: 11

Losses: 3

ERA: 3.16

Complete Games: 1

Shutouts: 1

Strikeouts: 65

WHIP: 1.244

American League Reserve: Jason Hammel

Baltimore Orioles

One of the bigger individual surprises this year has been Hammel.  He has been the best starter on the equally surprising Orioles and is well on his way to a career season.

Wins: 8

Losses: 3

ERA: 3.29

Complete Games: 1

Shutouts: 1

Strikeouts: 89

WHIP: 1.194

American League Reserve: C.J. Wilson

Los Angeles Angels 

I don't know if people know how good Wilson has become, but it's impressive that he has been the Angels best new acquisition even though they also got Albert Pujols.  Wilson once again is throwing gems.

Wins: 9

Losses: 4

ERA: 2.36

Complete Games: 0

Shutouts: 0

Strikeouts: 81

WHIP: 1.148

American League Reserve: Felix Hernandez

Seattle Mariners 

You have to kind of feel sorry for the guy.  "King Felix" is easily one of the top five pitchers in baseball, but being on the Mariners means very little run support and less wins.  If Felix ever was on a winning team he would be a perennial 20-game winner. 

Wins: 6

Losses: 5

ERA: 3.09

Complete Games: 1

Shutouts: 1

Strikeouts: 114

WHIP: 1.220

American League Reserve: Yu Darvish

Texas Rangers

The Japanese import has gotten a lot of attention, but it's looking like it is well deserved.  While Darvish has looked wild at times, he is still only a rookie and his future looks promising.

Wins: 10

Losses: 4

ERA: 3.57

Complete Games: 0

Shutouts: 0

Strikeouts: 106

WHIP: 1.380

American League Reserve: Jarrod Parker

Oakland Athletics 

Here is another player that probably wouldn't have made it had it not been for every franchise getting a representative.  The rookie pitcher has looked good so far and while Oakland has struggled, Parker could be an ace in the making.

Wins: 4

Losses: 3

ERA: 2.57

Complete Games: 0

Shutouts: 0

Strikeouts: 58

WHIP: 1.208

American League Reserve: Jim Johnson

Baltimore Orioles

Well where has this guy come from? Johnson has been as reliable as you can be at the back of the bullpen for the Orioles.  He currently leads the AL in saves.

Saves: 23

ERA: 1.30

Strikeouts: 22

WHIP: 0.779

American League Reserve: Fernando Rodney

Tampa Bay Rays

Rodney wasn't even expected to be the closer this year, but injuries led to him pitch the ninth inning and he hasn't looked back.  He's showed before he can be dominant, but he seems to be picking up consistency as well.

Saves: 22

ERA: 1.04

Strikeouts: 35

WHIP: 0.750