While the Brewers managed to end their 26-year playoff drought, they still fell in the Division Series to the would-be World Series champion Phillies. Philadelphia matched up with the Tampa Bay Rays, who struggled for almost the entirety of their franchise’s existence until 2008. This season was full of big names and big trades, some that would have a lasting impact on many teams across the league.
1.) Dustin Pedroia, Boston Red Sox: 54 Doubles
Pedroia, who at the time was just 24 years old, managed to put together one of the best seasons from a second baseman in MLB history. The lifelong Red Sox star managed to win the MVP, while leading baseball in doubles and hits. His 54 doubles rank among the most in a single season in baseball history, and only 6 players have matched or exceeded his mark since his 2008 season. Pedroia would be felled by injury later in his career, but during his prime he was a real force for some really talented Boston teams.
2.) C.C. Sabathia, Milwaukee Brewers: 10 Complete Games and 5 Shut Outs
You would be hard pressed to find a more impactful trade deadline deal than the one that occurred between Milwaukee and Cleveland. Sabathia’s Brewers career was short, but he certainly left his mark, pitching the Crew to their first playoff appearance in nearly 3 decades. The Brewers threw Sabathia on 3 days rest often, but he always delivered big performances. Between his time in Cleveland and Milwaukee, C.C. threw 10 complete games and 5 shut outs, both best in the Majors.
3.) Fransisco Rodriguez, Anaheim Angels: 62 Saves
Fransisco “K-Rod” Rodriguez put together a season that no other closer has managed to match in the history of Major League Baseball. K-Rod closed out more games than some teams had victories in that season, with the Nationals (59) and Mariners (61) both having abysmal years. Rodriguez’ season was so impressive that he finished 3rd in Cy Young voting, and 6th in MVP voting in 2008.
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