The conclusion of the 2012 MLB All-Star game and just one more half of baseball season to be played, it's now time to highlight some of the MLB's most surprising first-half players.
R.A. Dickey, SP, Mets
Dickey had arguably the best first half of any pitcher in Major League Baseball. His knuckleball and play has helped keep the Mets relevant in a year in which they appeared destined for the cellar. Dickey was named to his first All-Star team after finishing the first half with a spectacular 12-1 record with a 2.40 ERA and 123 strikeouts. As of July 11, Dickey leads the National League in wins, WHIP, complete games and shutouts.
Melky Cabrera, OF, Giants
Named this year's All-Star MVP, Cabrera is on pace for a career year in his first season with the San Francisco Giants. Cabrera earned the starting nod in the All-Star game after finishing the first half with a league-leading 119 hits. The 27-year-old outfielder complied 51 hits and a .429 batting average in May, when the Giants were without star Pablo Sandoval.
Mike Trout, OF, Angels
Trout has emerged as arguably the top young talent in the majors. The 20-year-old Trout lead the American League in batting average (.343) and stolen bases (26).Trout is the current favorite of AL Rookie of the Year and could even enter the MVP discussion if he continues his stifling hitting.
Carlos Ruiz, C, Phillies
Ruiz is having a career offensive year, eclipsing his career-high in homeruns and will all but certainly do the same in all his other major offensive categories. He is ranked fourth in the NL in batting at .350 and was named to his first All-Star team.
Mark Trumbo, OF/DH/3B/1B, Angles
Trumbo has emerged as the backbone of the Angels lineup. He led the team with 29 home runs and 87 RBI's last year. Trumbo will certainly eclipse his home run total from last season, he currently has 22, and will provide the warming Pujols with some lineup protection.
Chris Sale, SP, White Sox
A reliever turned starter, Sale has helped the White Sox emerge as a surprise in the American League. Sale has been spectacular with a record of 10-2 and a 2.19 ERA, he was named to his first All-Star team in 2012.
Ian Desmond, SS, Nationals
The durable Nationals shortstop has set a career high in home runs and has become vital piece in the young and exciting Washington lineup. Desmond declined his All-Start invitation because of a left oblique strain, but the Nationals first-half MVP has only missed one game this season.