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Over the course of the season, Ed Walsh will be scouring the Web to bring the latest news, polls, and commentary about the Boston Red Sox to these pages.

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November 14, 2005
My choice: Big Papi

The debate for the AL MVP rages on, but a decision is supposed to be reported today. Most believe it comes down between Alex Rodriguez and David Ortiz.

I'm sure most of you know which camp I reside in. While the numbers may suggest a virtual tie, I beg to differ.

I honestly think there really is no debate.

Compare their numbers late in the game or when the game was close.

NameABRH2BHRRBIBBSOAVGOBPSLG
A-Rod751522504121521.293.418.520
Papi782027611331415.346.427.846

(neither player scored a triple; each stole a base)

Based on these numbers how could anyone suggest that A-Rod is more valuable than Ortiz?

Yankee fan, you can forget the defense argument too. I don't care how many runs A-Rod saved. I would argue that Ortiz saved just as many NOT playing the field. A-Rod also had 12 errors, Ortiz 2. Besides, I've never heard of a MVP Award going to the best defensive player - they have Gold Gloves for that friends.

A-Rod already has earned a few of these awards. He will have more chances as well. But Ortiz may never have a better opportunity than today.

Opposing pitchers feared him.

His teammates delighted when getting a second chance.

His late inning heroics in 2004, sparked the greatest comeback in the history of sport.

And fans, well, we simply love the guy.

We in Red Sox Nation have been spoiled. It's time to spoil the Most Valubale Papi.

Posted by Ed Walsh at 01:01 PM

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Comments

A very good case for Papi. What is value, really?

It's hard to imagine him getting it, given simpler analysis with the overall numbers, but this is as strong an argument as anyone can make, and I agree it is very compelling.

Posted by Wool Hat
November 14, 2005 01:29 PM

"A-Rod already has earned a few of these awards."

No, he's only won the award ONCE.

"He will have more chances as well. But Ortiz may never have a better opportunity than today."

Come on. That's not a reason.

Posted by Steve
November 14, 2005 02:10 PM

True. A-Rod has only won one MVP previously. I thought he won two while with Texas. I mean look at his numbers with that team 52 HRs in 2001, 57 HR in 2002.

Posted by Ed Walsh
November 14, 2005 02:59 PM

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