This season, the Atlanta Braves are World Series hopefuls. After a slow start, the club has dominated the NL. They’re three games behind the Mets. This club looks tough in the postseason, NL East crown or not.
Two terrific rookies helped the Braves this season. Spencer Strider and Michael Harris II are both contributing. Their varied positions make them rivals for the NL Rookie of the Year.
Fans have debated which Braves youngster should earn the NL Rookie of the Year. They could both win the National League Rookie of the Year. The last co-Roys were in 1979. In 1976, the NL had its last double winner.
Spencer Strider and Michael Harris II should share the NL Rookie of the Year. Here are two reasons why.
The major reason why Braves’ Spencer Strider, Michael Harris should share NL RotY for first time since 1976
MLB starting pitcher rotations make it difficult to compare Spencer Strider and Michael Harris II day-to-day. Harris II plays every game for the Braves, while Strider starts once every five and rarely finishes.
Still, both players have been vital to the Braves’ regular-season domination. Let’s start with Strider, who recently struck out 16 Rockies. In that game, Strider allowed just two guys on base.
Strider can strike out the top hitters in MLB with two pitches. The Braves righty unleashes a 100 mph fastball. Then he throws a vicious slider that terrifies batters. He has a 2.67 ERA and a 1.84 FIP while striking out hitters. He’s been Max Fried’s perfect partner this year.
Michael Harris II is the Braves’ rookie centre fielder. Atlanta’s outfielders have had a mixed year. Last year’s playoff hero, Eddie Rosario, faltered at the plate. Robbie Grossman’s fine. Ronald Acuna Jr. is playing well despite knee concerns. Marcell Ozuna isn’t discussed.
Harris’ promotion has helped the Braves in two ways. He gives the Braves much-needed firepower. He’s hitting.300 with an OPS of.867. His bat has been clutch for the squad.
Michael Harris II shines defensively. The Braves outfielder has saved the franchise from disaster several times. He’s one of Atlanta’s greatest outfield defenders with a 99.5% fielding percentage.
Despite being rookies, Strider and Harris II have helped the Braves win. To celebrate their performances, they should both win NL Rookie of the Year.
