San Francisco Giants:Who’s All-Star Worthy?

Brandon Crawford and Joe Panik

Now we get to the double-play duo of Crawford and Panik. These two are on the bubble, with an edge going to Crawford making it and Panik not. Crawford’s defense precedes him, as Panik’s will after one more full season. Both are All-Star quality, but some voters will not look deep enough, especially those on the east coast who turn the tv off while the Giants are just starting on some nights.

Crawford has followed up his Silver Slugger/Gold Glove year with a very strong start. Looking like he has an excellent approach every time he goes to the plate, the shortstop is staying inside the ball well, and his ability to drive in runs (39, good for second among shortstops) is really contributing to the giants success. Even before Andrelton Simmons went over to the AL, Crawford was the elite defensive shortstop in the NL. His bat is continuing to develop, and should be an All-Star many more times in the future. He is hitting .264 with 6 home runs. Trevor Story and Corey Seager currently have the inside track at playing shortstop in San Diego.

Panik has been the one thing that the Giants have needed since he was drafted, consistent. Unfortunately, his play is quiet when it comes to voters, and it usually takes a few years for fans to truly appreciate his play. He has amazing range at second, playing balls up the middle as good as anyone. His arm allows him to play deeper, and he turns two as though he’s played second his entire life. He has a similar batting average to Crawford (.263) and has the same amount of long balls (6), and has hit some “at him” balls early on. His key in the lineup is his ability to score runs (38, tied for third among NL second basemen), and have the clean at bat. He moves runners over when needed and understands his role.

Next: Conclusion