MLB Network has been promoting a cool ranking exercise.
It’s called “MLB Top 100 Right Now” and the idea is to rank the best 100 players in the league at the moment.
They have been asking fans to get involved in the process, which makes it even cooler.
Now, they are ready to publish the entire result of hours of analysis and rankings by themselves and fans.
They are showing the rankings in parts, starting with those between 100 and 91.
A member of the Cleveland Guardians was part of that group: Josh Naylor, checking in at No. 96.
It’s time for @MLBNetwork’s countdown of the #Top100RightNow!
The list kicks off with Nos. 100-91, featuring the electrifying Elly De La Cruz. ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/Lo7adop2zy
— MLB (@MLB) February 7, 2024
Cincinnati Reds phenom Elly De La Cruz is ranked 100th, and Texas Rangers starter Nathan Eovaldi is 91st.
Naylor has established himself as a force at the plate; one of the most important members of the Guardians lineup.
During his breakout 2023, he had a career-high .842 OPS with 17 home runs and 97 RBI.
He also contributed 31 doubles and even 10 stolen bases while playing acceptable defense at first base.
Statistically, it was his best year as a major leaguer.
The most impressive thing is that he got his numbers while playing in only 121 games, missing some time due to injury.
The Guardians offense is just not the same without him.
Hitters who can be counted on to provide some big offense don’t grow on trees for the Guardians.
You can pencil in Jose Ramirez and Naylor on that list, because the rest of the lineup has proven to be inconsistent.
It’s nice to see the rest of the league recognizing Naylor’s contributions to his team.
NEXT: Analyst Breaks Down What Guardians Fans Can Look Forward To In 2024
