Lewis' Bounce-back Season Ignored By AL Players

Slapping an exclamation point on one of the most forgettable seasons in franchise history, even the Rangers’ good players are getting bad reviews.

Colby Lewis entered spring training last February as a long-shot afterthought in the wake of major hip surgery. But thanks to a combination injuries to starters and his tenacity, Lewis wound up tied for the team lead with 10 wins while leading the staff in starts (29) and innings (170).

But, alas, the first pitcher in Major League Baseball history to return from such an injury – and to be a decent starter after missing 18 months – got no love in the voting for Comeback Player of the Year. In fact, Lewis’ efforts didn’t even land him in the top five, which is laughable.

Former Ranger and Highland Park native Chris Young won the award, and deservedly so. The Mariners’ pitcher recovered from shoulder surgery and went 12-5 with a 3.65 ERA. I have zero problem with him winning the honor.

But no way Lewis shouldn’t get a mention a top five rounded out by Tigers’ outfielder J.D. Martinez, A’s pitcher Scott Kazmir, Yankees’ shortstop Derek Jeter and Blue Jays’ outfielder Melky Cabrera.

The problem, of course, is Jeter. He underwent off-season ankle surgery and returned to hit a measly .256. Seriously, didn’t the guy get enough accolades in his final season without bumping Lewis from his more deserving place?

A native Texan who was born in Duncanville and graduated from UT-Arlington, Richie Whitt has been a mainstay in the Metroplex media since 1986. He’s held prominent roles on all media platforms including newspaper (Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Dallas Observer), radio (105.3 The Fan) and TV (co-host on TXA 21 and numerous guest appearances, including NBC 5). He currently lives in McKinney with his wife, Sybil, and two very spoiled dogs.

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