Mauer Wins MVP, Teixeira Finishes Ahead Of Jeter

The AL MVP was announced today and the winner was rightfully, Joe Mauer. I have no qualms whatsoever with his selection. Mauer was without a doubt the best player in the American League. The only beef I have with his selection is that it wasn't unanimous. How anyone voted Miguel Cabrera first is beyond me? There's always one stupid writer that messes up every vote. But that's for another entry.

I was more interested in seeing who finished higher in the voting, Mark Teixeira or Derek Jeter? Teixeira finished 2nd with 225 points and Jeter finished 3rd with 193 points. Like with Mauer winning, I have no problem whatsoever with Tex finishing ahead of Jeter. If I had the privilege of voting that's how I would have put them. I think Teixeira was definitely the most valuable Yankee, except for maybe Mariano Rivera. Tex was an absolute beast at the plate. He led the AL in both HRs (39) and RBI (122). Jeter had a great year but I don't think you can put him above Tex.

I think what made Tex most valuable to the Yankees was his defense. It's been a while since the Yankees have had an slick fielding first baseman. Tex saved a lot of games with his glove and he definitely made the rest of the Yankees' infield look better because of his glove. Jeter probably doesn't win the Gold Glove if Jason Giambi were the 1B. Tex just elevates everybody's game.

The other Yankees receiving MVP votes were Alex Rodriguez (10th place - 31 points), Mariano Rivera (14th place - 17 points), Robinson Cano (18th place - 12 points), and CC Sabathia (21st place - 4 points). I would almost argue that A-Rod was the most valuable Yankee. The team didn't really catch fire until he returned about a month into the season. I hope Tex gives Alex a big thanks because Tex definitely doesn't have the year he had without Alex batting behind him. Somebody out there ranked Alex as high as 3rd.

I'm surprised that Mariano had the highest total of all pitchers, finishing with 5 more points than the 2009 AL Cy Young winner, Zack Greinke. You'd think that the Cy Young winner would have the higher total, wouldn't you? You can definitely make a case that Mo was deserving of some votes, but I don't think he should have ranked above Greinke. But that's just me.

Anybody think Jeter was more valuable than Teixeira? Anybody out there have any beef with the writers for how they voted? If so, lay it on me. I'd love to know your thoughts.

Peace, love and Pinstripes,

J-Boogie