Make only volatile guesses about the MLB postseason. Such is the trend, where the only predictable thing is unpredictability. One can only imagine who is going to take the Commissioner’s Trophy home. Will it be the unbeatable Philadelphia Phillies, or the favorites Texas Rangers? The robust Houston Astros or the underdog Arizona Diamondbacks? Well, ESPN’s player rankings might be helpful to make a guess. 

In the thick of some nail-biting, some shattering, and some uplifting games of the 2023 postseason, ESPN has released a list that has stirred up the MLB world. Some might take it quite ‘Personally’. Certain unexpected players have been ranked in positions that have made the fans go, “LMAO?” 

On What Basis, Did ESPN Rank Bryce Harper?

@UnfortunateMLB tweeted about what happened on October 3rd. ESPN released a list of the top 40 players, in an article titled, “October Impact Rankings: Top 40 players in 2023 MLB playoffs”. Amidst seeing Ronald Acuna Jr, Mookie Betts, and others in the top positions, one would obviously look for Bryce Harper, who has carried his team throughout the season. Not finding him on top defies all of his achievements since he joined Philly. But guess where Harper stood! 

Ranked in the 40th position, Bryce Harper found his name in the most underwhelming spot, despite his might. The description of his strengths started with the sentence “The final numbers turned out fine”. While the article went on about the statistics of Harper pre and post Tommy John surgery, it is quite intriguing how this ranking system works. 

Apart from his stellar numbers .296/.413/.583, the publication highlighted his “ability to rise to the occasion”. “Who can forget the home run off Robert Suarez to clinch last year’s NLCS?” Moreover, the 30-year-old’s recent ‘Atta-boy-Harper’ incident validates that statement further.

It’s somewhat surprising, considering Harper boasts one of the highest walk rates in the major leagues and an average strikeout rate. However, his whiff rate is notably low, ranking in the 11th percentile, indicating he struggles with swinging and missing frequently. Additionally, his chase rate is relatively low, falling in the 21st percentile.

Nonetheless, it’s evident that Harper is no ordinary man; therefore, the fans have the right to be enraged at this ranking. 

ESPN Ticked Off the Fans

Amidst the ESPN article release, and the same getting tweeted, there were fans who thought this was deliberate. Although it may not have been intentional, some fans are upset about Harper’s position in the rankings, which is perceived as being relatively low. Here’s what the fans said. 

One such fan brutally criticized the reporting of the organization, using the words, “the worst”.

Some were skeptical if this entire article was just a stunt to improve engagement. 

One fan spoke about how Harper would take this “personally”. 

Another fan could not contain their disappointment that ESPN underrated a phenomenal man like Harper himself. 

Another brutal comment was where the fan bashed ESPN and its overall sports coverage altogether. 

Whatever the media says, the supporters and fans of Bryce Harper stay unhinged by this list. Seeing the fans go on a ranting spree after this tweet came up bringing the article to the surface, one thing is clear. 

Read More : “It’s Unbelievable” – Philadelphia Phillies’ Star Sheds Light On What Makes Bryce Harper’s Team Stand Out Despite Having “Big-money Guys”

Bryce Harper has a solid fan base who is not to be messed with! 

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