Three hitters who have demolished the ball in July
With July over, let's take a look at some hitters who were on another level during the month. The All-Star break is during July, causing some players to experience a little bit of rust when they come back, but not these three who produced eye-popping numbers for their teams as they push for the playoffs.
Here are the hitters who turned it up a notch in July.
Manny Machado, San Diego Padres, third base
July was quite a month for Machado, the Padres slugger slashed .309/.411/.681 while leading the MLB with 11 home runs and 29 RBI. His best month of the 2023 season by far, Machado was the only hitter with double-digit home runs and also managed to have more walks than strikeouts.
After struggling the first few months of the season, Macahdo has bounced back in a big way in July. The Padres will hope he can continue his strong play as they try to sneak into the playoffs after being predicted to be major contenders.
Cody Bellinger, Chicago Cubs, outfielder
After getting off to a hot start in 2023, Bellinger has battled injuries and a couple cold streaks but he looks all the way back after his scorching July.
With a .400/.432/.690 slash line, the former National League Most Valuable Player added eight home runs and 24 RBI while helping the Cubs claw their way back into the fight for the National League Central.
With the ability to play great defense at both first base and centerfield while providing that type of production with the bat Bellinger is showing the form that made him one of the best hitters in the league from 2017-19.
Kyle Tucker, Houston Astros, outfielder
Tucker is in the middle of his best season as a member of the Astros in 2023 after back-to-back 30-homerun seasons.
With seven home runs and 23 RBI, Tucker slashed .359/.445/.674 while leading the Astros in the absence of Yordan Alvarez.
Tucker also added six stolen bases in July, giving him 20 on the season and approaching his career-high of 25. A true five-tool player, Tucker will look to continue his hot-hitting with the Astros in a tough fight for the American League West.
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