This is the last of three mid-2023 feature articles (see Shohei Ohtani and Ronald Acuna).
Thanks once more to Steve’s APBA Card Computer for this glimpse into the future.
My last choice? Luis Arraez. Miami second baseman Arraez has had a pretty unprecedented season especially compared to the last 20 years. Take a look at some of these numbers.
- A .401 batting average as late as June 24th
- Three 5-hit games and three 4-hit games
- Currently leading both leagues by 33 points
Luis Arraez is not a power hitter nor is he a speed demon. He has three homers and one stolen base so far this season. But boy, he can hit the ball!
| Split | G | PA | AB | R | H | 2B | 3B | HR | RBI | SB | BB | SO | BA | OBP | SLG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Totals | 88 | 371 | 337 | 40 | 130 | 19 | 1 | 3 | 43 | 1 | 28 | 19 | .386 | .437 | .475 |
This unofficial card reminds me a bit of Rod Carew’s 1977 APBA card without speed numbers. To be fair, Carew’s card had four 0s. The similarity is there, though. Lots of sevens, not a ton of homerun power and not exactly a speed threat either. Carew certainly had more steals though with 23.
The point is, the motive of both cards was simple. Get on base using the basehit.
It’s worth mentioning that Arraez has only struck out 19 times so far this season. 19 times! I would like to see other players take note of this. Arraez’ 19 Ks so far was accurately represented by Steve’s APBA Card Computer with one 13 on the card.
While we’re on topic of Arraez’ bat control, there is the issue of the number of 31s he might receive. I was playing an Illowa APBA League series recently against Rob Moore’s Chicago Highlanders. Rob has Arraez on his team and we got into a discussion about whether he might receive more than two 31s. We both thought he was a good candidate. A high average and a excellent walk to strikeout ratio bodes well for that.
Finally, I just love the 21-36!
