Fans and media love to read, and make different types of rankings, no matter the time of the year.
Best pitchers, most likely trade destinations, best hitters, best players, most disappointing players to this point: you name it, and you will surely be able to find it on the web.
The folks at B/R Walk-Off recently ranked the Top 25 players in the league to this point.
These exercises are often subjective, which leaves plenty of room for debate.
That’s exactly what Cleveland Guardians pitcher Triston McKenzie wanted to spark with his comment on social media.
Through his Twitter account @T_eazy24, the recently demoted McKenzie questioned the ranking of his teammate Jose Ramirez.
7???? https://t.co/GNqyouNyBi
— Am I…Triston 2️⃣4️⃣ McKenzie?? (bluecheck) (@T_eazy24) July 2, 2024
Here are the rankings, from first to seventh: Aaron Judge, Gunnar Henderson, Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, Bobby Witt Jr., Jarren Duran, and Ramirez.
Of course, McKenzie will stick up for his teammate in what he thinks is an unfair ranking for him.
That’s to be expected.
In reality, you can make an argument that Ramirez could be ranked anywhere from fifth to even tenth if we include players such as Bryce Harper, Elly De La Cruz and Ketel Marte.
It will always depend on the angle you take when coming up with the rankings.
If we prioritize consistent excellence and the ability to drive in runs, J-Ram could be fifth, ahead of Witt.
If we put an emphasis on WAR (Wins Above Replacement) he is actually 13th in MLB among position players this season.
In the end, there is nothing wrong with a spot inside the top ten.
McKenzie’s willingness to go public to stick for his teammate is admirable, though.
NEXT: Steven Kwan Reveals How He Would Feel If He Makes All-Star Team
