Forming the best possible second half lineup for the Pittsburgh Pirates

Left Field: Bryan Reynolds

Bryan Reynolds got off to a slow start to the year, but has turned things around in a big way and is on pace for one the best years of his career thus far. The switch-hitting outfielder has made his second All-Star Game, and deservingly so after how well he has hit this year. He has been one of the best National League outfielders and one of the few bright spots in the Pirates' grass.

Through his first 411 plate appearances, Reynolds is slashing .280/.343/.487 with a .357 wOBA, and 130 wRC+. Reynolds already has 17 home runs on the year. He is more than on pace to surpass his previous career high of 27 dingers. Although his 8% walk rate is a career low, Reynolds has not struck out very often, with an above-average 21.4% K%. 

Defensive metrics have been very mixed on Reynolds' work in left field. Defensive runs saved has him around average at -1. UZR/150 loves his work at +14.8. Outs above average holds the opposite opinion at -6. One thing that can be agreed upon, though, is that Reynolds has made some great throws. He is in the 82nd percentile of arm strength, as his throws average 89 MPH.

Reynolds has looked great this year with the bat. He's hitting very well and is arguably the best part of the Pirates' starting nine. Hopefully, he continues to hit into the second half of the season. He's a massive reason why the Pirates have been able to stay afloat.