Top 5 - NL Rookie of the Year Candidates

1. Wally Taveras Astros
2. Jeff Francoeur Braves
3. Clint Barmes Rockies
4. Zach Duke Pirates
5. (tie) Brad Hawpe Rockies (tie) Ryan Church Nationals (tie) Brad Halsey Diamondbacks (tie) Ryan Howard Phillies

I look at the ROY voting as sort of the MVP award for rookies and my ranking is based on to date contributions. These rankings will certainly change in the final month of the season.

Taveras has hit .300 and leads rookies in runs. He's been there all year. Francoeur has been spectacular but he will play only half a season (although if he keeps even close to the pace he's set - he walks away with the award). Clint Barmes was the Francoeur of the first half- why should he be penalized for playing the wrong half of the season? Plus Barmes may come back to add to his stats. If Francoueur falters and Duke keeps up his pace - then the 2005 NL ROY will have the name Zach Duke on it.