What a fascinating season 2012 proved to be. A Triple Crown, a division champion having spent just one day in first place and 19- and 20-year-olds taking the league by storm. As postseason baseball begins, it’s time to reflect on the season by showing off what would be my ballot for various awards. Today, I reveal the six players most deserving of Rookie of the Year honors in the American and National League.
American League
Rookie of the Year
1. Mike Trout, Los Angeles
The youngster took the AL by storm and stole 49 bases while getting caught just five times. He scored 129 runs in just 139 games.
2. Yu Darvish, Texas
Averaged 10.4 strikeouts per nine innings and just 7.3 hits.
3. Yoenis Cespedes, Oakland
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He missed 22 games in May, then hit .305 from June 1 on.
National League
Rookie of the Year
1. Bryce Harper, Washington
The young phenom is not a clear choice by any means. However, he has 98 runs and has hit .333 with a .394 OBP and .660 slugging since Aug. 24.
2. Norichika Aoki, Milwaukee
Expected to be the fourth outfielder, Aoki made just three starts in April. After he was inserted in the starting lineup on a regular basis May 21, the Brewers were 66-55.
3. Wade Miley, Arizona
The lefthander was 14-9 with a 2.85 at the end of August and appeared to have the inside track for Rookie of the Year. He finished 16-11 with a 3.33 ERA.
—Charlie Miller
