By any measure, Oakland A’s first baseman Jason Giambi had an incredible 2001 season. The defending AL MVP had an even better season that year, leading the league in doubles, walks, on base percentage, and slugging. He helped power the A’s to the 2001Wild Card, where the eventually fell to the Yankees in five games in the ALDS.
Overall that year, Giambi produced a .342/.477/.660 batting line, hitting 38 homers and 47 doubles. In his 671 plate appearances, he drew 127 walks while striking out just 83 times. He led the AL with a 9.2 bWAR that season, outpacing Bret Boone and Ivan Rodriguez for the crown.