The Baltimore Orioles have consistently been near the top of the MLB standings throughout the 2024 season. A big reason for that is the production they have received from younger players on the team.

One of their standout youngsters this season has been outfielder Colton Cowser.

The rookie has regularly been productive at the plate, recording a slash line of .245/.324/.443 in 133 games played with 484 plate appearances.

He has been a good source of power with 21 doubles and 20 home runs, adding two triples.

With 68 runs scored and 62 RBI, he has been a consistent source of offense for the Orioles all season.

His advanced stats are also elite. An average exit velocity of 90.6 miles per hour and a hard hit percentage of 47 percent are both above league average.

Same with his Rbat+ and OPS+ of 116 and 121, respectively.

Given the adjustments that were made with the dimensions at Camden Yards, some center field-type range is needed from all three outfielders. Cowser, who has played a majority of his innings in the gigantic left field, is capable of that.

He has been elite for Baltimore this season defensively, which plays as big of a part as any in his Rookie of the Year candidacy.

Given how many things he has done well this season, it should come as no surprise that he is the favorite for the American League Rookie of the Year Award. The question is, should he be?