This has been quite the season for rookie shortstop Jeremy Pena. Many analysts were unsure of what to expect from the 24-year-old (now 25) at the start of the season. The Houston Astros had just lost All-Star Carlos Correa to the Minnesota Twins and Pena was next in line to replace him. The young shortstop excelled under pressure and exceeded all expectations in 2022.
The Houston Astros completed a remarkable season by winning their second World Series. Pena was voted the American League Championship Series MVP and World Series MVP. Time after time, Pena came up with clutch hits when his team needed him the most. MLB Network recently released their “Top Postseason Performer of 2022” and ranked Jeremy Pena third.
The recognition from the MLB is a fitting finish to a dream debut season for the youngster from Santo Domingo. MLB fans took to Twitter to debate Pena’s ranking, with many believing he should be higher on the list.
MLB Network released the list with Bryce Harper at the number two spot. The Philadelphia Phillies slugger finished the postseason with six home runs, 13 RBIs, and a 1.160 OPS.
Pena finished the postseason with a .345/.367/.638 slash line. He led the Astros in home runs (4), hits (20), runs (12), slugging (.638) and OPS (1.005).
With veteran players such as 2017 AL MVP Jose Altuve and Trey Mancini struggling in the playoffs, Pena’s contribution was vital.
Jeremy Pena finished with 4 HRs, 12 runs and a 1.005 OPS in his first ever postseason
