Athletics rookie Nick Kurtz distinguished himself in a crowded first base field this year, but still, looking at the competition, it felt like an honor just to be nominated for a Silver Slugger. Vinnie Pasquantino of the Kansas City Royals drilled 32 homers in his fourth big-league season, edging out fellow AL Central first baseman Spencer Torkelson (31 blasts) for the nom. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. carried a country on his back during the Toronto Blue Jays' playoff run, drilling eight postseason homers and riding right to the edge of glory.
Kurtz? The Rookie of the Year win seemed assured around the corner, but no rookie can compete with Vladdy.