It's been fun watching Ronnie Belliard play second base during the post season. With a strong arm, he positions himself on the outfield grass to increase his range. (Cal Ripken played deeper than most shortstops for the same reason.) Offensively, he posted a poor season, below his already low career averages. He's a defensive second baseman.

Polanco's numbers in 2006 lagged his career averages as well. But healthy for the post season, he's hitting like the 2005 versions of the second baseman, earning the ALCS MVP award. The edge goes to Detroit, simply due to Polanco being a better overall hitter in his career. Polanco getting on base at the order in the ALCS helped extend the Tigers offense, although he neither scored nor drove in many runs himself.