The 2018 Topps All-Star Rookie Team introduced MLB fans to a crop of young talent that has since made waves in the league. Let’s take a closer look at these stars and their impact on the game.
Jorge Alfaro – C – Marlins
Jorge Alfaro, known for his strong arm and agility behind the plate, quickly gained a reputation for his defensive skills and power hitting. In his rookie season, Alfaro hit .262 with 10 home runs and 37 RBIs. Alfaro has maintained a steady batting average and has demonstrated remarkable defensive prowess.
Ryan O’Hearn – 1B – Royals
Ryan O’Hearn brought power to the Royals’ lineup, hitting 12 home runs with 30 RBIs in just 44 games during his rookie season. O’Hearn’s power at the plate has made him a valuable asset, with over 35 career home runs to his name.
Gleyber Torres – 2B – Yankees
Gleyber Torres, a two-time All-Star, quickly became a fan favorite in New York. In 2018, he hit .271 with 24 home runs and 77 RBIs, showcasing his power and defensive versatility. Torres continues to impress, with over 90 career home runs and a strong defensive presence at both second base and shortstop.
Miguel Andújar – 3B – Yankees
Nicknamed “Papa,” Miguel Andújar finished second in the AL Rookie of the Year race after hitting .297 with 27 home runs and 92 RBIs. Andújar became an important part of the Yankees lineup, though injuries have impacted his career in recent years.
Willy Adames – SS – Rays
Willy Adames made an impact as a defensive anchor for the Rays. In his rookie season, Adames hit .278 with 10 home runs and 34 RBIs. Adames has continued to thrive, particularly after joining the Brewers, where he has become an offensive spark plug.
Ronald Acuña Jr. – OF – Braves
“The Abuser,” Ronald Acuña Jr., quickly established himself as one of MLB’s most exciting players. He won the 2018 NL Rookie of the Year after hitting .293 with 26 home runs and 64 RBIs. Acuña became one of the youngest players in history to hit 40 home runs and steal 30 bases in a season.
Harrison Bader – OF – Cardinals
Harrison Bader, known as “Tots,” has been a force in the outfield with his speed and defense. In 2018, he batted .264 with 12 home runs and 15 stolen bases, quickly establishing himself as a reliable center fielder. His elite defensive skills earned him a Gold Glove in 2021.
Juan Soto – OF – Nationals
Juan Soto, nicknamed “Childish Bambino,” burst onto the scene with a mature approach at the plate, hitting .292 with 22 home runs and 70 RBIs in his rookie year. Soto became an integral part of the Nationals’ lineup and helped lead them to a World Series title in 2019. His remarkable plate discipline and power have already led him to two Silver Slugger Awards.
Walker Buehler – SP – Dodgers
Walker Buehler, known for his elite pitching, recorded a 2.62 ERA with 151 strikeouts in 137.1 innings in his rookie season. Buehler quickly became a Dodgers ace, helping them win the 2020 World Series. His career ERA remains below 3.00, making him one of the league’s top pitchers.
Ryan Yarbrough – SP/RP – Rays
Ryan Yarbrough, known for his unique role as a “bulk reliever,” posted a 16-6 record with a 3.91 ERA in 2018. Yarbrough’s versatility and effectiveness have kept him a valuable piece in the Rays’ rotation and bullpen. With his deceptive delivery and control, he has maintained a career ERA around 4.00.
A.J. Minter – RP – Braves
A.J. Minter showed promise as a left-handed reliever in Atlanta, posting a 3.23 ERA with 69 strikeouts in 61.1 innings in 2018. Minter has continued to be a reliable bullpen arm, particularly in high-pressure situations, contributing to the Braves’ bullpen depth.
Shohei Ohtani – SP/DH – Angels
Nicknamed the “Japanese Babe Ruth,” Shohei Ohtani made history as a two-way player, excelling as both a pitcher and a hitter. In his rookie year, he posted a 3.31 ERA on the mound and hit .285 with 22 home runs. In 2021, Ohtani won the AL MVP with 46 home runs, 100 RBIs, and a 3.18 ERA.
Conclusion
The 2018 Topps All-Star Rookie Team features a dynamic mix of power, defense, and pitching talent. From the powerful bat of Ronald Acuña Jr. to the brilliance of Shohei Ohtani, these players continue to make their mark on MLB. Whether it’s Juan Soto’s disciplined hitting or Walker Buehler’s pinpoint pitching, this class will be remembered for years to come.