J.T. Realmuto wins NL Player of the Week

MLB announced earlier today that J.T. Realmuto has won the first player of the week award this season for the National League. The 26 year old began the season with a .500/.542/.909 slash line through the first 5 games. Realmuto is tied for second in the NL with two homeruns so far, including a late game-tying shot against the Nationals last Thursday.

Despite being projected as an above average catcher by both Steamer (2.2 WAR) and ZiPS (2.0 WAR), the high quality contact in his at-bats to begin the season show signs that he has the ability to match his 3.5 WAR season last year. If Realmuto can add even more offensive production, which was already 7% above league average last year, to his strong defense, he could certainly help the Marlins separate from the pack in what is sure to be a tight NL East pennant race. He looks to extend his five game hit streak heading into tomorrow night’s game against Atlanta.