Mid-season MVP Watch07/07/2023 11:35 AM Article By: Emily Lane After just passing the halfway point in the season, there are a few stand out players who you may want to keep an eye out as the season continues. Let's look into a few players who may be seen in the running for the MVP award in August. Consistency is key for Derek Bender, the catcher for the Bourne Braves is currently leading the league with the highest batting average. The junior out of Coastal Carolina is batting .434 with an OPS of 1.241 and a slugging percentage of .717. Through 53 at-bats in 14 games, Bender has 23 hits and 13 runs. Bender had an outstanding performance on June 23rd, hitting for the cycle against the Hyannis Harbor Hawks, leading the Braves to a 11-4 victory. If you want to talk about power, Hunter Hines is the guy. The senior from Mississippi State, currently playing for the Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox, is leading the league with an impressive total of eight home runs and is on track to hit over 10, which has not been done in a single season since 2015 when Bobby Dalbec had 12 with the Orleans Firebirds. Hines’ average is solid at .275, with an OPS of .966 and a slugging percentage of .625. Not only is Hines leading in home runs he is also leading in RBI with a total of 27 through 21 games. Getting on Cape not long after the start of the season, Nick McLain is proving that he came ready to play. The junior out of Arizona State is settling in for the Wareham Gatemen very well. Through 15 games, McLain has 17 hits with 12 RBI, while also making it clear he will wait for his pitch with 11 walks. Helping his .304 average and .905 OPS is his ability to hit the long ball with three home runs. McLain capitalizes on extra bases when visible with three stolen bases. If you are watching a game over the remaining few weeks, these are a few names to make sure to watch for! |