Indians left fielder Michael Brantley has emerged as a power hitter this season for the first time in his career, but not by changing his swing or approach. The result is that he appears destined to represent the team in the All-Star Game.
An injury to Jason Kipnis and lack of production from others in the lineup have forced Brantley to take over the third spot, but he has continued to thrive. His nine home runs this season is just one short of the career-high he set last season. He is also on pace for about 125 RBI - not bad considering his previous best was 73. He has also fanned just 16 times in 165 at-bats.
"It's fun to watch," Terry Francona told MLB.com when asked about Brantley's increased power numbers. "I think his base is stronger - his legs. As good hitter get to know themselves throughout the league, sometimes that evolves into more productiom. ... I don't think you see him selling out to hit home runs. It's just balls that maybe used to be doubles, he's starting to drive over the fence, which is great to see."
Brantley, who signed a four-year extension with the Indians in February, owns an impressive stat line of .291/.362/.515.