What would ultimately be the Giants’ 3rd World Series in 5 years, would be one for the ages, going 7 games. Madison Bumgarner was excellent, recording 4 wins and a save in the postseason. He would cement his legacy as a top-tier clutch pitcher, and would wind up bringing home a World Series MVP in 2014.
1.) Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers: 1.77 ERA
One of the lowest ERA’s in recent history, Kershaw put on a clinic in 2014. Not only was his ERA minuscule, he also won a league-leading 21 games. The Dodgers’ superstar would bring home his 3rd Cy Young award in 2014, while also winning the MVP for the National League. Kershaw struck out 239 batters in less than 200 innings, leading the Dodgers to a National League West Title.
2.) Jonathan Lucroy, Milwaukee Brewers: 53 Doubles
To this day, no catcher has hit more doubles in a single season than Lucroy did in 2014. The Brewers’ All-Star would put up a brilliant season, hitting .301 while also driving in 69 RBIs. 2014 would be Lucroy’s best season, where he would finish 4th in National League MVP voting, and also become an All-Star for the first time (he would get one more All-Star selection in 2016). It is crazy to think that no other catcher, with all the Hall of Fame resumes out there, have not come with in 6 doubles of the Brewers’ catcher.
3.) Chris Davis, Baltimore Orioles: 33% Strikeout Percentage
Just a year or so removed from his monster break-out season, Davis registered a 33% strikeout percentage during the 2014 season. One in every 3 at bats would lead to strikeout, which would average out to at least 1 strikeout per game. Paired with his sub-.200 batting average, Davis definitely took a step back after his contract extension. Either way, Davis still managed to hit 26 home runs and drive in 72 runs during his otherwise dismal season.
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