Before the season began, this was a no-brainer. The Angels signed Albert Pujols, the greatest hitter of his generation, in December. Even though his numbers had trailed slightly in 2011, there was no reason to think he wouldn't crush it in Anaheim. But King Albert appeared lost in the first month, and with the Angels off to their worst start in franchise history, the front office opted to call up its top prospect, Mike Trout. Though he missed the season's first month, by the end of August, he led the American League in runs, stolen bases, batting average and highlight-reel catches in center field. Trout's call-up energized the team, and his performance placed his name into serious consideration for the most-valuable-player award.

Honorable mention: pitcher Jered Weaver. If you don't know how good this guy is, you aren't a baseball fan.