Top Baseball Players Born on December 23

The article discusses the top baseball players born on December 23. The list includes Jerry Koosman, Sam Leever, Hanley Ramirez, Victor Martinez, and Mitch Haniger. These players have made significant contributions to the sport of baseball throughout their careers.

Jerry Koosman, born in 1942, is ranked as the top player on this list. He had a 19-year career with the Mets, Twins, White Sox, and Phillies, compiling a 53.7 bWAR. Koosman set two Modern Era NL rookie records in his rookie year of 1968, including most strikeouts by a pitcher and most shutouts.

Sam Leever, born in 1871, is a turn-of-the-20th-century right-hander. He was a four-time 20-game winner, with his best season coming in 1903 with the Pirates. Leever had a 2.47 ERA and started 299 games, completing 241 of them.

Hanley Ramirez, born in 1983, won the 2006 NL Rookie of the Year Award. He made three All-Star teams and finished second in the 2009 MVP voting. Ramirez was known for his strong batting eye and impressive leadoff home runs.

Victor Martinez, born in 1978, is a switch-hitting catcher-turned-DH. He made five All-Star teams and won two Silver Slugger Awards. In 2014, Martinez finished second in AL MVP voting, thanks to his impressive batting stats.

Mitch Haniger, born in 1990, is a supplemental first-round pick who has had some injury setbacks during his career. However, when healthy, he has been a good hitter, averaging 32 home runs and 96 RBIs per season.

Other notable players mentioned in the article include Tommy Thomas, Brad Lidge, Jerry Manuel, and Ryan Minor. These players have also made significant contributions to the sport of baseball.

In conclusion, the article highlights the top baseball players born on December 23, showcasing their impressive achievements and contributions to the sport.