Today the finalists for the Silver Slugger Award were announced and the Cubans were plentiful amongst the possible recipients of this famed prize. There were nine finalists in total between ample leagues, six Cubans (Yandy Díaz,Randy Arozarena,Adolis García,Luis Robert,Yordan Álvarez,Jorge Soler) and three Cuban-Americans (Tristón Casas,Nolan Arenado,J.D. Martínez) made the cut.
In the American League rookie Tristón Casas (.263,24HR,65RBI) and 2023 AL Batting Champion Yandy Díaz (.330,22HR,78RBIs) were amongsr the finalists at first base in the American League. While three Antilleans, Randy Arozarena (23HR,83RBIs), Luis Robert ( 38HR,36(2B) and Adolis García (38 HR,107RBIs,.508 SLG) made the cut in the AL outfield.
Yordan Álvarez, who is arguably the most complete hitter to leave Cuba in the last two decades will be a finalist as a designated hitter. The giant from Las Tunas, Cuba hit .293 with 31 homers and 97 RBIs in only 114 games this season. The slugger also slashed a robust .407/.583/.990.
Congratulations to Yordan Alvarez, Kyle Tucker, and Alex Bregman on being named Silver Slugger award finalists! pic.twitter.com/OKsuSsz8Kh
— Houston Astros (@astros) November 2, 2023
In the National League Cuban-American Nolan Arenado (.266,26HR,93RBIs) is looking to win his sixth Silver Slugger at third base, while another Cuban-American J.D. Martínez (.271,33HR,103RBIs) is trying to win his fourth prize. Martínez was a double-winner in 2015 when he won the award at DH and OF.
Last but not least is Jorge Soler to round out the list. The designated hitter was an impact bat for the Miami Marlins and a key player in their qualification for this year’s postseason. The slugger swatted 38 longballs and posted a .512 slugging percentage. The part-time outfielder also garnered the first All-Star selection of his 10-year career this season.
There's hot and then there's Adolis García. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/AauHwxT6nP
— MLB (@MLB) October 28, 2023
American League
First Base
Triston Casas, Red Sox*
Yandy Díaz, Rays
Outfield
Randy Arozarena, TB
Adolis García, TEX
Luis Robert Jr., CWS
Designated Hitter
Yordan Alvarez, HOU
National League
Third Base:
Designated Hitter
J.D. Martínez, LAD*
Jorge Soler, MIA