MLB awards watch: American League MVP race

1. Matt Chapman, 3B Oakland Athletics

.318 BA, 7 HR (T-7th), 17 RBI (T-13th),1.041 OPS (6th) and 1.8 WAR (2nd).

Haven’t we seen this movie before with the Oakland Athletics? You know, the one where they find a young third basemen who has a Major League-ready glove but a bat that needs some more work? Oh yes, the prequel was with Josh Donaldson, and now Oakland is working on the sequel with Matt Chapman.

However, unlike many films, the sequel may end up being better than the prequel for the Athletics. Chapman has bettered himself at the plate every year of his three-year career, and this season he has taken off.

So far, Chapman‘s slugging percentage (.624) and OBP (.417) are both at a career-best. What’s behind this surge? He is being much more disciplined and selective at the dish.

Chapman‘s strikeout percentage was 23.7 last season. This year, he has cut that down to 9.7 percent. In response, his walk percentage was jumped from 9.4 last year to 13.6 this campaign.

Of course, this is what you would expect with a young hitter. Chapman is gaining experience and becoming a well-rounded hitter for the A’s. Seasoning will help take him from a slick-fielding, light-hitting infielder to an all-around superstar.

The extra-base hits are key because Chapman hit a ton last year, but most were doubles (42). Now, as he becomes stronger and more confident, he can start depositing more of those balls over the wall.

At the hot corner, we all know how good Chapman is. He was awarded the platinum glove last year, and he may be on his way to another one this season. He is making all the plays, even the tough to impossible ones as well.