The Detroit Tigers had some pretty decent bats in their lineup this season to complement Justin Verlander's pitching prowess. The 2011 Silver Slugger awards, handed out on Wednesday night, didn't exactly reflect that however as only Alex Avila earned the distinction as the best offensive player at his position.
Avila's season at the plate included a .295 batting average while knocking out 19 home runs and driving home an additional 82 RBIs along with being named to the AL All-Star team.
"It's a great honor," Avila told Chris Iott via text message Wednesday evening. "To be considered one of the best at your position is a tremendous accomplishment, and I'm very proud of that."
While Avila had a solid season both at and behind the plate, it was almost more surprising that Miguel Cabrera was beat out for the award by Adrian Gonzalez. A release on MLB.com says that the award is voted on by coaches and managers from both leagues, and voters are prohibited from rewarding players on their own team.
David Ortiz and Atlanta's Brian McCann each picked up their fifth such honor.
| American League | |||
| Pos. | Player | Team | Silver Sluggers |
| 1B | Adrian Gonzalez | BOS | 1 |
| 2B | Robinson Cano | NYY | 3 |
| SS | Asdrubral Cabrera | CLE | 1 |
| 3B | Adrian Beltre | TEX | 3 |
| OF | Curtis Granderson | NYY | 1 |
| OF | Jose Bautista | TOR | 2 |
| OF | Jacoby Ellsbury | BOS | 1 |
| C | Alex Avila | DET | 1 |
| DH | David Ortiz | BOS | 5 |
| National League | |||
| Pos. | Player | Team | Silver Sluggers |
| 1B | Prince Fielder | MIL | 2 |
| 2B | Brandon Phillips | CIN | 1 |
| SS | Troy Tulowitzki | COL | 2 |
| 3B | Aramis Ramirez | CHC | 1 |
| OF | Ryan Braun | MIL | 4 |
| OF | Matt Kemp | LAD | 2 |
| OF | Justin Upton | ARI | 1 |
| C | Brian McCann | ATL | 5 |
| P | Daniel Hudson | ARI | 1 |