Every season, there are players who become the biggest all-star snubs, and this year was no different. Milwaukee Brewers second baseman Brice Turang was left off the National League All-Star roster after putting together a fantastic first half.
At the beginning of every season in Major League Baseball, players get the chance to prove themselves early, hoping to be named an MLB All-Star. They make strides in terms of production and begin to earn the respect of their peers.
Although many have yet to reach their full potential, receiving that prestigious honor, especially for the first time, usually marks the beginning of a Hall of Fame resume. First-time all-stars are a huge part of what makes the Mid-Summer Classic special, and there are many worthy candidates. Unfortunately, Turang won’t be among that group.
Ozzie Albies gets the start at second base for the National League All-Stars, with Luis Arraez occupying the spot on the bench. The Braves’ second baseman was voted in by the fans, but there were other players who were more deserving. When comparing their statistics, Turang has had the better season. Albies has a slightly higher batting average and has hit two more home runs than Turang, but Turang is better in every other major category.
Even though he was voted in by his peers, Arraez’s numbers don’t quite measure up to Turang’s either. The only advantage Arraez has is batting average, slugging percentage, OPS, and strikeout rate. Turang has better stats in WAR, OBP, home runs, RBI’s, runs scored, and stolen bases. The comparison between the two players selected over him proves that he was snubbed and should’ve been an all-star.
How Brice Turang Changed The Narrative
After earning a reputation as a slick-fielding infielder, questions remained about whether Turang could be just as productive at the plate. He has increased his batting average, on-base percentage, and power numbers each season. Widely considered as one of the best defensive players in MLB regardless of position, it may not be long until he’s considered the best-hitting second baseman.
Turang has certainly made his case as one of the top three second basemen in baseball. He recently ranked third in on-base percentage and OPS. He also has double-digit home run and stolen base totals.
Analysts believe Ketel Marte is the consensus best second baseman. He is also viewed as one of the premier clutch hitters in all of baseball, given his track record of elite production. If Turang’s bat heats up going into the second half, and if he continues to play Gold Glove-caliber defense, those rankings may look a little different.
An All-Star Hidden In Plain Sight
Turang’s approach at the plate this year looks completely different, and the adjustments are noticeable along with the results. Critics wrote him off earlier in his career, calling him a good defensive player with a mediocre swing. Turang has flashed legitimate five-tool potential, and his emergence as a double-digit home run threat solidifies his status. The Brewers have remained competitive in the NL Central, largely due to Turang being a table-setter on offense and providing defensive stability.
Due to the fact that he plays in a small market, Turang doesn’t receive the exposure that other players get. Milwaukee won’t get many nationally televised games the way the New York or California teams would, so the opportunities to see how good a player he has become are limited.
Turang is beginning to get a little recognition now, and he doesn’t receive enough recognition because he doesn’t fit the typical superstar mold. He won’t hit the long bombs like Marte, and he doesn’t have a flashy personality like Fernando Tatis Jr. What he does on the field won’t always show up in the box score, but it’s the small things he does that contribute to wins.
