Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports
The Baltimore Orioles, whether they reach the postseason or not, should have no shortage of league accolades on their current roster. With several Gold Glove candidates, a likely Silver Slugger or two, it’s clear that there’s no shortage of talent on the field for the Orioles.
They may even have an MVP candidate or two in the mix. If there’s one player that deserves to be in the MVP mix as a representative of the O’s, it’s likely Adam Jones. An candidate for Most Valuable Player last season, and voted team MVP, Jones is right again in the thick of things for the contending Orioles.
Jones brings all five tools to the mix, making him one of the more exciting players in all of baseball. His average is up quite a few points from last season, as he’s gone for a slash line of .304/.332/.519/.851. The power has been there as well, as he’s posted 24 home runs on the season, as well as an already career high 85 RBIs.
On top of that, he’s added a few swipes to the mix, stealing 10 bags so far this season. Not to mention the stellar defense he brings to the mix. He’s one of five potential Gold Glove candidates that the O’s currently employ. Standing alone, he has all the credentials of an MVP candidate. But how does he stack up against the rest of the American League?
Jones is in the top ten in the American League in batting average, at his .304 clip. He comes in at eighth in the AL in doubles, fifth in hits, and fourth in total bases. His WAR for the season is at 3.9, also a career best. However, stacking up against the likes of Miguel Cabrera and Mike Trout, he likely won’t have a chance.
There’s no doubt that Adam Jones is one of the best players in baseball. He’s proven that over the last few seasons, and his numbers back it up. He should absolutely be in the mix as an MVP candidate, because he is one of the most valuable players to his team’s success. However, against some of his competition, the chances of him actually taking home the award are slim to none.
