Player of the Week: Willson Contreras

It was a close race between him and Donovan.

The Cardinals had a very mediocre week, losing a three-game series on the road, and then winning a three-game series at home. It wasn’t one of those weeks where I had many choices. However, one could argue Brendan Donovan could be player of the week.

But Donovan missed a couple games, and Contreras did not. Also, I’m a softie. To see somehow break out of a slump makes me more inclined to pick that hitter than to repeat a hot hitter continuing to be hot. This isn’t a scientific process.

But let’s not take away from what Contreras did. This isn’t some sympathy pick. Contreras earned it. In the past week, Contreras has batted .375 with five walks, a homer and a double.

And actually I should haven’t mentioned Donovan. Contreras really did have a better week. Donovan had a .312/.444/.444 line. Contreras batted .375/.483/.500. Case closed.

Contreras is in the midst of a 9-game hitting streak, obviously started before this week. He’s gotten on base at least twice in seven games and gotten at least two hits in four of them. Three of the two-hit games were this past week.

Here are some highlights. First his homer to almost catch up to the Braves in Game 1.

Part of being player of the week is more than your offensive contributions, and Contreras was player of the week in all aspects of his game. I have multiple baserunning highlights for you.

That was an important run in the second game of the Braves series. (Every run counts with this bullpen). He also made a slick swim move to avoid a tag at second base.

We have got contributions with his bat and his baserunning. How about his defense?

Also possible good luck charm for the Blues? Who’s to say he’s not?