December 27, 2006
1971 Online
The Day by Day Database now goes back to 1971. Here's the leaders in slugging percentage that year. I wonder if there was a big stink about Torre winning the MVP over Aaron or Stargell? It's almost the opposite of this year's AL voting. Instead of going for a great offensive season by a player at a tough defensive position, the 2006 voters gave it to a slugging first baseman. In 1971,Torre's BA and OBA from third base beat out 100 points more of slugging from two fantastic outfielders. I'm not even sure how well Torre played third base that year, as he was converted from catcher. On top of that, Pittsburgh finished with the best record in the National League, which should give a boost to Stargell. It's a very interesting vote. The vote also agrees with win shares, which give Torre 41, Stargell 35 and Aaron 33. Let out of the top was Fergie Jenkins with 37.
Posted by David Pinto at
11:46 AM
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Interesting question. For some reason, though, I'm fixated on the eight lowest-ranked players:
Don Kessinger .316
Bud Harrelson .303
Luis Aparicio .303
Roger Metzger.299
Larry Bowa .292
Gene Michael .276
Ed Brinkman .275
Enzo Hernandez .250
All shortstops, all virtually powerless. (loved Kessinger, though)
Interesting question. For some reason, though, I'm fixated on the eight lowest-ranked players:
Don Kessinger .316
Bud Harrelson .303
Luis Aparicio .303
Roger Metzger.299
Larry Bowa .292
Gene Michael .276
Ed Brinkman .275
Enzo Hernandez .250
All shortstops, all virtually powerless. (loved Kessinger, though)
Look at the games played for Torre vs. Stargell and Aaron. Torre played in an extra 20 games that combined with the tougher position and the higher OBP earned him the MVP.