November 11, 2008 Mike Aviles has been named the Royals' Player of the Year for 2008, according to MLB.com.
Our View:The rookie shortstop earned the honor by hitting .327 over 101 games, with 27 doubles, four triples, 10 homers, 51 RBI, eight stolen bases, and 68 runs scored. He should make an even bigger impact in 2009.
October 17, 2008 Mike Aviles has been selected as one of the finalists for the American League Players Choice Outstanding Rookie Award, according to the Kansas City Star. The other finalists are Evan Longoria and Alexei Ramirez.
Our View:Longoria is almost certain to win, but in terms of the biggest impact made relative to draft day cost in the fantasy world, Aviles is the clear cut winner given his massive performance for a waiver-wire pick up a the shortstop position (.327-10-51-68-8 in 416 AB).
September 18, 2008 In the Royals' 12-0 win over the Mariners Mike Aviles hit his first home run in 172 at-bats. The homer was Aviles eighth of the year.
Our View:This has been a surprise year for the 27 year old rookie who is hitting .320 in 93 games and might even get a few votes for AL ROY. He will probably not win the award over Evan Longoria but he sure has put his name on the fantasy map for 2009.
September 4, 2008 Though it is doubtful he wins the award, Kansas City's Mike Aviles should be in consideration with Tampa Bay's Evan Longoria for AL Rookie of the Year, according to the Kansas City Star. "If I’m even mentioned in that discussion, it’s a good thing," Aviles said.
Our View:Aviles won't win the award over Longoria or Chicago's Alexi Ramirez, but he has had a terrific season, hitting .333 in 76 games. At 27, he is old for a rookie, and there is a reason he took so long to arrive in the big leagues. Fantasy owners should keep that in mind during drafts next season when thinking about taking him.
August 31, 2008 Mike Aviles underwent X-rays after Sunday's game. The results showed only a bruise on his right index finger, the Kansas City Star reports. The shortstop could be back on Tuesday.
Our View:That's excellent news for the rookie shortstop. We still wonder if he'll be ready after the off-day on Monday, but fantasy owners should be able to count on him moving forward.
