While the Colorado Tumbleweed have several all-star caliber players, the 1st half MVP of the team is Matt Carpenter. An undrafted free agent acquisition during spring training, Carpenter was originally picked up to provide depth at the second base position to Chase Utley, while being able to cover quite a bit of ground with his multiple-position eligibility. Carpenter quickly worked his way into the lineup as an everyday player, netting 284 points on the season (269 points while in the Tumbleweed lineup).
Carpenter was also named to the National League All-Star team. His point value comes from his ability to get on base, hit for extra bases, score, as well as drive in runs. He is a true all-around player, even flashing the leather on occasion. According to Baseball Reference, at the break Carpenter has posted 3.9 WAR and a 30.6 RE24.
