National League Rookie of the Year: Dansby Swanson, shortstop, Atlanta Braves
Swanson drew 39 walks with the Braves in 2016. If even one of those walks was an out, or even a hit, he would have had 130 at-bats and this award would be wide open heading into 2017.
But with only 129 at-bats in 2016, Swanson is the senior circuit’s clear Rookie of the Year favorite heading into 2017.
Swanson did a lot of hitting during 2016. Between A+ Carolina and AA Mississippi, 2015’s No. 1 overall pick hit .275/.362/.426 with nine home runs and 13 steals in the minors. Upon getting called up to the big club, he slashed at .302/.361/.442 with three homers and three steals in limited time.
Moving up through the pro ranks ahead of his MLB call-up did not phase him. Moving up two levels from AA to the majors did not phase Swanson, either.
If his offensive numbers don’t move you, Swanson also plays strong defense at a premium position. That’s something voters usually salivate over. If Swanson helps Atlanta even contend for a playoff spot, it’s another notch in his belt.
Swanson is just a blue chip prospect. At this point, it would be a surprise to see anyone else take this award.