The 2009 MLB Playoffs have elevated a whole new crop of unlikely stars to hero status, if only for a brief while.
After watching the MLB postseason, you know who Chooch is. You know the names Jayson Werth and Jeff Mathis.
Major League Baseball playoffs have made the unlikeliest of players household names, even if it is just for the month. This year's playoffs have been exciting and have kept fans glued to the television, which makes it easier to learn the names of every player left. While most of baseball is playing golf right now, the World Series starts on Wednesday with just two teams. But, even so, the playoffs have created heroes and new fan favorites.
Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz's following grows with his every at-bat. He has t-shirts with his nickname 'Chooch.' The fans yell his name every time he steps in the batter's box. Two years ago, barely any of the Phillies' fans knew who he was. To see the impact of the playoffs, just do a quick search on eBay. Ruiz has several autograph cards and all are selling. Some of the low-numbered cards have even hit double digits. One of Ruiz's teammates is also seeing the benefits of playing on the reigning World Series championship team. Jayson Werth has been with Philadelphia for three seasons, but 2009 has marked the first full season of his career. Werth was hampered by injuries and finally given a chance to play. He became an All-Star on a team filled with them. However, batting behind Ryan Howard has helped others see Werth for his potential.
The biggest impact has been on Mathis, the Angels back up catcher. He has played great against the Yankees in the ALCS and the market value for his baseball cards reflect that. His RC and autograph cards have gained exposure, probably more now than any other point in his career. A career .200 hitter, no one has paid much attention to Mathis, especially with Mike Napoli in front of him.
This goes to show how big of an impact the playoffs have on players. These three players have probably gained the most exposure from the playoffs. Other athletes such as Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Ryan Howard and Vladimir Guerrero are always going to have their massive following. But there is always room for a few others.
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