Giancarlo Stanton one of three finalists for NL MVP
Miami Marlins slugger Giancarlo Stanton was named a finalist for the National League Most Valuable Player by the Baseball Writers' Association of America Tuesday night.
Stanton, who turns 25 on Saturday, led the NL in nearly all offensive categories when a pitch to the face ended his season on Sept. 11. He still managed to pace the league in home runs (37), slugging percentage (.555), total bases (299) and intentional walks (24). His .288 average was the second-highest mark of his five-year career and the 105 RBI set a personal best.
In 2014, Stanton made his second All-Star team and competed in the Home Run Derby, wowing fans at Target Field and watching on TV with his tape-measure shot that nearly left the park.
On Monday, Stanton won NL Outstanding Player at the Players Choice Awards. During the World Series he was presented the NL's Hank Aaron Award given to the top offensive player. Stanton was also a finalist for the Rawlings Gold Glove in right field.
Los Angeles Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw and Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Andrew McCutchen are the other finalists for NL MVP, which will be announced on Nov. 13.
No Marlins player has ever been awarded the honor.
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