Josh Rutledge 2012 Bowman ChromeJosh Rutledge – SS

Drafted: 3rd round, 107th overall

Team: Colorado Rockies

eBay listings: Josh Rutledge

Baseball America – Josh Rutledge

Birth Date: April 21, 1989

While replacing the injured Troy Tulowitzki (groin), Josh Rutledge surprised fans around the majors with a .381 average in July. He was able to remain the Rockies shortstop for the remainder of the 2012 season despite the declining average which eventually got as low as .209 in September. In the last 7 games of the Rockies season, he battled just .176 with just six hits and one RBI. Rutledge’s speed and extra base power was a key factor for the Rockies where already out of the running for the postseason. He swiped seven bases, hit twenty doubles and five triples after the All-Star break alone. Living in Colorado myself, the 23 year old rookie was a fan favorite as he would come sign autographs, take pictures with fans and crack jokes. He is now the Matt Kemp of Colorado, as he is dating Miss Florida and owning Denver right now. Although he is a fan favorite and all around nice guy, his defense has not impressed the true analysts as he is often compared to Tulowitzki, a gold glove shortstop and possibly the best defensive shortstop in the majors.  (credit: bigbaseballboy)

Current Cards on the Market:

2010 Bowman Draft
2010 Donruss Elite
2012 Finest Mystery Auto
2012 Topps Heritage Minor League