The statistic Wins Above Replacement (WAR) is one of the most important metrics used in Major League Baseball (MLB) today. WAR is used to measure a player’s total contributions to their team, taking into account both offensive and defensive performance. It is also used to compare players across different positions, as well as to evaluate players against one another. Knowing who has the highest WAR in MLB is essential for teams to properly assess their rosters and make the best possible decisions for their organization.
What is WAR?
Wins Above Replacement (WAR) is a statistic that measures a player’s overall contribution to their team. It takes into account both offensive and defensive performance, and is used to compare players across different positions and evaluate them against one another. WAR is calculated by adding up all of a player’s individual stats and then subtracting what a replacement-level player would have contributed in the same situation. This is done for both offensive and defensive performance, and the total is the player’s WAR.
Who Has the Highest WAR in MLB?
The highest WAR in MLB belongs to the Los Angeles Angels’ Mike Trout. Trout has been a dominant force in the league since his debut in 2011, and his WAR of 72.7 leads all active players. Trout leads the pack in both offensive and defensive performance, and his longevity and consistency make him one of the most valuable players in the game.
The next highest WAR belongs to the Colorado Rockies’ Nolan Arenado. Arenado has been a standout at third base since his debut in 2013, and his WAR of 62.8 puts him second among active players. Arenado is a five-time All-Star and has won seven consecutive Gold Gloves, making him one of the best defensive players in the game.
Other Notable Players
While Trout and Arenado are at the top, there are other players who deserve recognition for their high WAR. The Boston Red Sox’s Mookie Betts has a WAR of 58.4, putting him third among active players. Betts is a five-time All-Star and a two-time Gold Glove winner, and he was the 2018 American League MVP.
The Houston Astros’ Alex Bregman is another player with a high WAR. Bregman has a WAR of 51.7, and he is a three-time All-Star and the 2017 American League Rookie of the Year. Bregman has been a key player in the Astros’ success over the past few years, and his strong all-around play makes him one of the best players in the game.
Conclusion
WAR is an essential statistic in Major League Baseball, as it is used to measure a player’s total contributions to their team. The highest WAR in MLB belongs to the Los Angeles Angels’ Mike Trout, who has a WAR of 72.7. Trout is followed by the Colorado Rockies’ Nolan Arenado, who has a WAR of 62.8. Other notable players include the Boston Red Sox’s Mookie Betts and the Houston Astros’ Alex Bregman, who both have WARs above 50. Knowing who has the highest WAR in MLB is essential for teams to properly assess their rosters and make the best possible decisions for their organization.