Player of the Month: May 1997

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United League – Rookie of the Month

Kevin MillwoodWashington

Washington has a new rising star — and his name is Kevin Millwood.

The standout first-year right-hander dazzled throughout May, going 4–1 in six starts with a sparkling 2.31 ERA. He struck out 49 batters in 39 innings and limited opponents to a .223 average, earning the respect of fans, teammates, and media alike.

For the season, Millwood now sits at 7–1 in 11 appearances with a 3.13 ERA and 78 strikeouts in 72 innings. The future in Washington’s rotation looks very bright.


Federal League – Rookie of the Month

Richie SexsonFlorida

Richie Sexson continues to prove he belongs.

The young Florida first baseman crushed 12 home runs, drove in 26, scored 23 runs, and hit .269 in May to secure Federal League Rookie of the Month honors.

On the season, Sexson is batting .244 with 25 home runs, 50 RBIs, and 39 runs scored across 56 games — remarkable production for a rookie.


United League – Pitcher of the Month

Randy JohnsonSeattle Pilots

Randy Johnson was overpowering in May.

The veteran left-hander went 4–0 in five starts, posting a 2.77 ERA over 39 innings while striking out a staggering 60 batters. Few pitchers were as dominant or as intimidating.

Johnson now carries a 7–3 record with a 2.83 ERA on the year.


Federal League – Pitcher of the Month

Kevin BrownKansas City

Despite years in the league, Kevin Brown still knows how to turn heads.

The 32-year-old right-hander compiled a flawless 4–0 record in five May starts, posting a brilliant 1.47 ERA with 33 strikeouts in 36.2 innings.

Brown has been just as sharp overall this season, sitting at 7–2 with a 1.83 ERA.


United League – Batter of the Month

Mark McGwire

Mark McGwire battered United League pitching all month long.

In 28 May games, the 33-year-old slugger hit 13 home runs, drove in 29, and scored 23 runs. Though he batted .234 for the month, his power production made the difference.

For the season, McGwire is hitting .222 with 27 home runs, 54 RBIs, 42 runs scored, and a strong .361 OBP thanks to 41 walks.

“You really have to work hard day in and day out to put up this kind of consistency,” McGwire said. “It’s always nice when everything comes together.”


Federal League – Batter of the Month

Charles JohnsonFlorida

When Charles Johnson stepped in during May, he meant business.

The young Florida catcher hit .330, slugged 14 home runs, drove in 27, and scored 24 runs. He also added 9 walks for a strong .394 OBP, showcasing both patience and power.

On the season, Johnson is batting .291 with 20 home runs, 38 RBIs, 40 runs scored, and a .352 OBP.