The 2017 Topps All-Star Rookie Team introduced a talented roster of players who have since made names for themselves through their power, skill, and determination. Here’s a deep dive into their achievements, milestones, and unique qualities.
Manny Piña – C – Brewers
Known as “Pineapple,” Manny Piña showed his defensive prowess as a catcher for the Brewers. In 2017, he hit .279 with 9 home runs and 43 RBIs, solidifying his place behind the plate. Throughout his career, Piña has built a reputation as a reliable backstop with a strong arm and clutch hitting.
Cody Bellinger – 1B – Dodgers
Nicknamed “Cody Love,” Cody Bellinger burst onto the scene with 39 home runs and 97 RBIs in his rookie season, earning him the 2017 NL Rookie of the Year award. Known for his powerful left-handed swing, Bellinger has continued to shine, boasting over 150 home runs and a .247 career batting average. His 2019 season earned him the NL MVP award, cementing his status as a top MLB slugger.
Ian Happ – 2B/OF – Cubs
Ian Happ brought versatility and power to the Cubs, hitting 24 home runs with 68 RBIs in his rookie year. Known for his switch-hitting ability, Happ has contributed in various roles for the Cubs, often displaying a combination of speed and power. He’s maintained a career batting average around .247 with over 80 home runs, adding value in both the infield and outfield.
Rafael Devers – 3B – Red Sox
Rafael Devers, with his big bat and strong arm at third base, quickly became a fan favorite. Known for his aggressive hitting, Devers has achieved a .283 career batting average with over 130 home runs and 430 RBIs. He earned an All-Star selection in 2021, proving to be a cornerstone of the Red Sox lineup with his clutch hitting and impressive power.
Paul DeJong – SS – Cardinals
Paul DeJong impressed early in his career, belting 25 home runs in his rookie season and earning a Silver Slugger in 2019. DeJong has hit over 100 home runs with a career average of .233. His combination of offense and defense makes him a consistent threat on the field.
Andrew Benintendi – OF – Red Sox
Andrew Benintendi quickly made a name for himself as a skilled fielder and hitter. Known for his excellent plate discipline, he finished his rookie season with a .271 average, 20 home runs, and 90 RBIs. Benintendi’s defensive prowess earned him a Gold Glove in 2021.
Aaron Judge – OF – Yankees
“The Judge” became an instant sensation with his towering home runs and charismatic personality. Judge smashed 52 home runs in his rookie year, winning the AL Rookie of the Year award and finishing as the runner-up for AL MVP. Judge has hit over 220 career home runs and maintains a .284 batting average.
Trey Mancini – OF – Orioles
Trey Mancini’s resilience became an inspiration, especially after he returned to the field in 2021 following a successful battle with colon cancer. Mancini hit 24 home runs with 78 RBIs in his rookie season and has maintained a .265 career average. His determination and skill make him a fan favorite and a respected player.
Germán Márquez – SP – Rockies
Germán Márquez quickly became a staple in the Rockies’ rotation. Márquez won 11 games in his rookie season and has continued to produce, amassing over 800 strikeouts and maintaining a 4.36 career ERA. His All-Star selection in 2021 highlighted his consistency and effectiveness, particularly in the challenging pitching environment of Coors Field.
Jordan Montgomery – SP – Yankees
Jordan Montgomery showed promise as a left-hander in the Yankees’ rotation, recording a 3.88 ERA in his rookie season. Montgomery has proven to be a reliable starter, with over 450 career strikeouts and a 3.94 ERA. His consistency and durability make him a valuable asset for New York’s pitching staff.
Josh Hader – RP – Brewers
Josh Hader, nicknamed “Haderade,” quickly established himself as one of the most dominant relievers in baseball. With his overpowering fastball and slider combination, Hader has amassed over 500 strikeouts and boasts a career ERA under 3.00. His three All-Star selections and three Reliever of the Year awards underscore his dominance in high-leverage situations.
Conclusion
The 2017 Topps All-Star Rookie Team showcased a wealth of talent and skill across the diamond. From Aaron Judge’s historic home run power to Josh Hader’s relief pitching, these players brought excitement and excellence to MLB.