Opening Day Countdown: Lucroy’s 4th Place NL MVP Vote

As we’re just 4 days away before Opening Day, let’s take a look back at Jonathan Lucroy’s 2014 season. As Brewers fans have and will continue to hear his name pop up in trade rumors, it’s fair to make sure his name is included in any type of Brewers countdown when looking back in Brewers history. His best season certainly can be argued, but in 2014, he made sure to get on base and also show off his defensive game as well.

Much like Carlos Gomez the year before, the Brewers looked for players to add to the offensive game and Lucroy did just that. With a .301/.373/.465 hitting line along with 13 HRs and 59 RBIs, he impressed all of MLB. Although, he outdid his power numbers the year before with 18 HRs and 82 RBIs, his hitting line was top notch as he only outdid his average in 2012 batting .320.

Although, it’s easy to point out any possible MVP’s hitting numbers, it’s sometimes hidden what they did on the defensive side. Lucroy fully improved his defensive game as he had his highest dWAR stat in his career at 2.0. His closest was in 2012 with 1.0.

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Here’s a video of Lucroy picking off Chris Denorfia of the Padres at 2^nd in 2014:

Looking at who outdid Lucroy in the NL MVP voting, it’s difficult to argue against the name Clayton Kershaw. Going by pure WAR, he was just a bit higher than both Giancarlo Stanton (6.5) and Andrew McCutchen (6.3) as Lucroy’s WAR was 6.7 for season. But, when you have pure power (Stanton – 37 HRs) and your team makes the playoffs (PIT lost the NLWC), it’s difficult to outdo even with great OBP, a strong arm, and tying the franchise record for (53) doubles.

So, whatever happens to Luuuuuuucroy this season, we certainly give thanks for all the great memories he gave to Brewers fans throughout the years.