When discussing Canadian major leaguers, the conversation has to start with reigning NL MVP Joey Votto.
However, Votto is far from the only Canuck making a splash in the big leagues.
It’s been a fine start to the season for both Jeff Francis and Russell Martin, both of whom have bounced back from injuries, providing Canadians with plenty to be excited about as they await the debut of prospect Brett Lawrie with the Blue Jays.
Here’s a look at the top five Major Leaguers from Canada this season, plus a few more who are on the mend:
1. Joey Votto, 1B, Reds
With a hit in 10 of his first 11 games, Votto is en route to a sensational encore following his 2010 MVP season. While Albert Pujols is still trying to get into the swing of things, Votto is far and away the best hitter in the National League right now.
2. Jeff Francis, SP, Royals
After enduring injury woes the last few seasons, Francis is healthy and has plenty to prove in America’s heartland. The Kansas City Royals are not expected to compete over the short-term, but as it turns out, Francis might end up being the team’s ace for the next few seasons.
After surrendering just three runs in his first two starts, Francis offered another quality outing against the Twins Tuesday night. Unfortunately, a lack of run support has yet to provide Francis with a win, but if he continues pitching the way he has, he should have no issues reaching double-digit wins for the first time since he won 17 games in 2007.
3. John Axford, RP, Brewers
The season began on an ugly note for Axford, as he surrendered four hits and four runs in his first two appearances. Since then, the hard-throwing right-hander has rebounded with saves in his past three appearances without allowing a runner to cross the dish.
Axford should enjoy a big season as the Brewers have been built to win now, and the 28-year old hurler proved last season that he has the ability to dominate in the late innings.
4. Russell Martin, C, Yankees
Martin has now had the opportunity to conquer the two biggest markets in America. After struggling with diminishing returns in Los Angeles in recent seasons, Martin has gotten off to a hot start in New York.
In fact, his three home runs to date are already more than half of last year’s total. Martin owns a .300 average with five runs and eight RBI through nine games in pinstripes. Even though the Yankees have a wealth of catching talent in the farm system at just 28-years old, Martin could end up being a long-term solution.
5. Ryan Dempster, SP, Cubs
It’s been a tough start to the season for veteran hurler Ryan Dempster.
After enjoying one of his finest seasons with 15 wins and 208 strikeouts in 2010, Dempster has lost two of his first three starts this season. While he is striking out more than a batter per inning, overall, Dempster’s ERA is sky high at 6.30 thanks to four home runs allowed in just 20 innings.
It’s a much different tale than last season when Dempster picked up two wins with a 2.78 ERA and a 0.98 WHIP in five April starts.
On the mend:
Rich Harden, RP, A’s
It took less than a week in spring training for Rich Harden to endure another injury. He is now trying to work his way back to the hill, but his rehab has been placed on hold. You can only hope for the best for this injury-plagued hurler. When he does return, Harden appears bound for a spot in the A’s bullpen.
Justin Morneau, 1B, Twins
With an average just above the Mendoza line, it’s clear that Morneau has not returned to his pre-injury form. Nonetheless, the very fact that Morneau is back on the diamond is a positive.
It should only be a matter of time before he returns to his MVP-calibre play.
Jason Bay, OF, Mets
Bay has not played in a major league game since crashing into the left-field wall at Citi Field last July. The Mets are hoping that his power will translate into many extra base hits and 20-plus home runs once he returns.
Expect Bay to suit up for the Mets by the end of next week.