Every competitive team boasts star players, but they also rely on those unsung heroes who are crucial to success during playoff runs. These pivotal players often have qualities that remain unnoticed by the general public and are frequently overshadowed by the stars, especially in markets outside their own.
It’s time to shine a light on their contributions.
As I have done in recent seasons, I connected with front-office executives and managers throughout MLB to gather insights on these invaluable players. I concentrated on the 16 teams with the highest playoff chances as of today. So, which player stands out as the most underrated yet essential for each postseason contender?
(Teams are listed by their playoff seeding as of Friday, including those outside each league’s six-team playoff bracket.)
American League
1. Detroit Tigers: Gleyber Torres, 2B
Following his one-year, $15 million contract, Torres has met the Tigers’ expectations by consistently getting on base, hitting for power, and being a key contributor. With a 110 OPS+ and a value of 2.1 WAR according to Baseball Reference, he excels in not chasing pitches outside the strike zone. His .359 on-base percentage has been critical for increasing the team’s offensive productivity.
2. Toronto Blue Jays: Alejandro Kirk, C
Kirk has maintained a solid presence at the plate, reaching base at a 35% rate and batting near .300 for most of the season. His performance in high-leverage situations has been impressive. Defensively, he ranks highly among catchers, demonstrating exceptional blocking skills and leadership within the pitching staff.
3. Houston Astros: Mauricio Dubón, UTIL
Dubón has played multiple positions for the Astros amid various injuries, showcasing remarkable versatility. With 18 doubles and seven home runs, his contribution has been vital off the bench. His ability to fill in wherever needed has proven invaluable for the team.
4. New York Yankees: Trent Grisham, CF
Grisham remains an important player for the Yankees, displaying above-average defense in center field and contributing effectively on offense with a .349 OBP and 23 home runs. His consistent performance ensures he stays a crucial asset, especially following the team’s injury struggles.
5. Boston Red Sox: Garrett Whitlock, RHP
Whitlock has transitioned to a bullpen role after previously being a starting pitcher and has thrived, boasting a 2.76 ERA. As a reliable setup reliever, he has shown significant progress post-injury, successfully maintaining leads and delivering solid performances in high-pressure situations.
6. Seattle Mariners: Gabe Speier, LHP
Speier has emerged as a standout for the Mariners, delivering 11.7 strikeouts per nine innings with a 2.27 ERA. His dominance against both lefties and righties, combined with impressive metrics, marks him as an essential player in high-leverage scenarios.
7. Kansas City Royals: Maikel Garcia, 3B
While not overlooked in Kansas City due to his All-Star status, Garcia deserves wider acclaim. With a .299 batting average and 4.2 WAR, his defensive capabilities and clutch hitting throughout various positions make him a pivotal player for the Royals.
8. Cleveland Guardians: Daniel Schneemann, UTIL
Schneemann has proven valuable by playing multiple positions with limited errors. His offensive contributions, including 15 doubles and ten home runs, alongside strong fielding metrics, underscore his importance to the Guardians.
National League
1. Milwaukee Brewers: Joey Ortiz, SS
Acquired from the Orioles, Ortiz has excelled defensively even with a modest batting average. His intangibles and presence in the field have added significant value, making him an essential player for the Brewers.
2. Philadelphia Phillies: Tanner Banks, LHP
Banks has solidified his role in the Phillies’ bullpen, achieving a 2.98 ERA and shutting down left-handers. His performance during critical game moments has been a key asset for the team’s pitching staff.
3. Los Angeles Dodgers: Jack Dreyer, RHP
Amidst injuries to many relievers, Dreyer has emerged as a reliable option, maintaining a 3.03 ERA. His versatility in various game situations typifies the professionalism he showcases as a rookie.
4. Chicago Cubs: Brad Keller, RHP
Initially signed to a minor-league deal, Keller has found success as a full-time reliever, posting impressive numbers and excelling in high-leverage situations. His development this season reflects his capabilities as a crucial team member.
5. San Diego Padres: Jeremiah Estrada, RHP
Often overshadowed by other bullpen stars, Estrada has been exceptional with a 2.48 ERA. His ability to manage tough situations solidifies his role as a key player for the Padres.
6. New York Mets: David Peterson, LHP
Peterson has been a mainstay for the Mets’ rotation, posting consistent results this season. His role as a steadying force during games has highlighted his importance to the team’s success.
7. Cincinnati Reds: Jose Trevino, C
Though not a standout offensively, Trevino’s defensive skills and leadership on the pitching staff have been vital since his acquisition, contributing greatly to the team’s performance.
8. St. Louis Cardinals: Alec Burleson, DH/1B/OF
Burleson is having a breakout season with solid offensive stats and improved defensive skills. His consistent contributions have made him a key part of the Cardinals’ lineup as he develops further as a major-league hitter.
(Illustration: Kelsea Petersen / The Athletic; Photos: Rob Leiter, Mark Blinch / Getty Images)
