When MLB fans think about the National League’s best hitters, the name Bryan Reynolds has become impossible to ignore. Since his debut, Reynolds has consistently showcased impressive hitting skills, solidifying his place as one of the Pittsburgh Pirates’ core players. Yet, this season, despite strong stats and invaluable contributions to his team, Reynolds was named just a *runner-up* for the NL Silver Slugger award. For Pirates fans, this outcome feels like a missed opportunity and raises serious questions about the criteria and politics of baseball awards.
Reynolds’ Stellar Season—And Why It Was Worth More
First, let’s take a look at the numbers. Reynolds maintained a batting average well above .260, consistently delivering clutch hits and maintaining a steady OPS. His versatility as a switch-hitter allowed him to tackle some of the league’s toughest pitchers, giving him an edge many Silver Slugger winners don’t bring to the table. Statistically speaking, Reynolds’ performance put him on par—or even above—some of the award’s winners this season.
The Pirates may not have been contenders, but Reynolds was a clear bright spot in their lineup. The value he brought to the Pirates wasn’t just in the box score but also in his leadership and ability to inspire teammates. Fans believe that this should count for something in these individual awards. Too often, awards go to players on winning teams, even if others outperformed them statistically. Why should a player’s environment dictate their worth?
The Small-Market Bias?
Pittsburgh isn’t L.A., New York, or Chicago. It’s no secret that the Pirates don’t command the same spotlight as teams in larger markets. This often leads to players from smaller markets being overlooked. Many fans believe Reynolds’ exclusion as the Silver Slugger winner is another example of this bias. How many players from teams without playoff aspirations have to be overlooked before MLB reexamines the selection criteria for these awards?
There’s a perception that the Silver Slugger—and similar honors—often get handed out based on a combination of media hype and big-name recognition rather than pure performance. Pirates fans argue that, despite Reynolds’ stats and clutch performances, he didn’t have the big-name appeal that other candidates might have. Is this award about celebrating genuine offensive skill or about rewarding popularity?
What Reynolds’ Snub Means for the Pirates
For the Pirates, Reynolds has been a cornerstone player—arguably the biggest reason for optimism in recent seasons. Pirates fans had been hoping that Reynolds’ recognition might give a little extra energy and legitimacy to a franchise constantly overshadowed by powerhouse teams. Instead, this result has left fans feeling neglected. While no one can take away the pride Pirates fans have in Reynolds’ performance, it’s easy to feel that he’s being undervalued by MLB as a whole.
Looking Ahead: Is Change Needed in MLB Award Criteria?
Baseball fans will always debate award winners, but Reynolds’ season brings attention to the flaws in how these awards are decided. Should stats carry more weight than they do now? Should awards consider the impact a player has on their team? Should small-market teams and players be given more of a spotlight?
Bryan Reynolds’ Silver Slugger runner-up status is more than just an award outcome—it’s a missed opportunity to recognize excellence in a sport that often prizes popularity over pure performance. As Pirates fans watch Reynolds continue to evolve, many will be asking: what more does he have to do to get the respect he deserves? Until MLB addresses these fundamental issues, the sport may continue to shortchange its true stars.
