Cleveland Indians Top 25 in 2016: No. 16, Tyler Naquin

Our look at the Top 25 Cleveland Indians in 2016 continues with a rookie who gave fans one of the greatest moments in recent memory.

While it may not have ended well for the Cleveland Indians, the 2016 season was filled with several iconic moments. But one stands out above all the rest.

Tyler Naquin gave fans one of the greatest moments in regular season history when he rounded the bases for a walk-off inside-the-park home run to beat the Toronto Blue Jays back in August. It was a moment that defined the season, and one that will never be forgotten.

Naquin struggled in the postseason, which may lead fans to forget the successful rookie season he had. He slashed .296/.372/.514 in 116 games and finished third in the American League Rookie of the Year voting.

The problem was his defense, which became painfully clear after a crucial error in Game 6 of the World Series, leading to him being replaced in center field in Game 7.

But one error does not define a season, and should not take away from a solid start to Naquin’s career. Fans often forget how much experience matters, and making it to Game 7 of the World Series in his rookie season should only help the young outfielder improve and stay composed in stressful situations in the future.

Naquin was a consistent part of the constantly changing group of outfielders, and did a great job to step up and become an everyday player when Michael Brantley went out for the year and Marlon Byrd was lost to suspension. It was a hard spot for any player to be in, let alone a rookie.

Naquin may have not even been on the 25-man roster if the season had gone according to plan, and his inside-the-park home run surely wouldn’t have happened. So while his season ended in disappointment, his presence on the team was a bright spot for much of the year.

Given Rajai Davis potentially not returning to the team and the uncertainty surrounding Michael Brantley, Naquin figures to be a key piece in the outfield once again. Anyone who is angry about his postseason play must take his youth into account. And he was not the only one who struggled in October and November.

But for now, we should all celebrate a great rookie campaign that was highlighted by a magical hit that contributed to a wonderful season to be an Indians fan.

Next: Indians Must Turn Rumors Into Deals

Be sure to check out the site tomorrow to see who comes in at No. 15.

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