Who is the best MLB player from each state?

Sep 19, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout (27) smiles to the bench after hitting a triple and driving in a run during the sixth inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jul 20, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Rockies first baseman Todd Helton (17) hits an RBI single during the fifth inning against the Chicago Cubs at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports /

Tennessee: Todd Helton

The state of Tennessee has produced a handful of All-Star players over the years, but no Hall of Famers. There is one player, however, who has an outside shot at being inducted. Todd Helton is a Knoxville product, and one of the best athletes in the history of the Volunteer State.

Helton was drafted in the second round out of high school, but elected to attend the University of Tennessee. While in college, he was a two-sport star and briefly started ahead of a guy you may have heard of, Peyton Manning. A knee injury in his junior year helped Manning permanently claim the job.

In 12 games for UT, Helton threw for 484 yards and four touchdowns. He obviously made more of an impact on the diamond, winning the NCAA player of the year award in 1995. His arm helped him set the record for most consecutive scoreless innings in college baseball while moonlighting as the closer for the Vols.

Helton’s MLB career got off to a quick start. He batted .315/.380/.530 in his rookie year. Obviously the thin air of Coors Field helped to boost his numbers, but Helton was one of the purest hitters in the league. He flirted with .400 in 2000. His numbers took a hit on the back end of his career due to numerous injuries and ailments. Teammate Larry Walker’s Hall of Fame case could have an impact on Helton’s, as the writers have yet to recognize an offensive force from Colorado.

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