J.D. Martinez started the second half like a player looking to prove he belonged in the All-Star Game.
The Tigers' right fielder, coming off a stellar three-game stretch, grabbed American League Player of the Week honors on Monday for the week shortened by the All-Star break.
Martinez drove in seven runs over the weekend, including five in Detroit's 11-1 win over the Blue Jays on Saturday, to earn the award. It's the fourth time Martinez has been named Player of the Week in his career, and the second time this season.
The slugger has been extremely productive since returning from a foot injury that cost him the season's first six weeks, hitting .308/.389/.636 for a Tigers club who could be sellers at the Trade Deadline.
Previous AL Player of Week Award winners
Martinez could be of interest for teams looking for a power bat, as he's a free agent after next season and is establishing himself as an elite hitter. Martinez has hit .300/.361/.552 with 99 home runs in 457 games for Detroit since he was acquired prior to the 2014 season. He currently leads the Tigers in hitting, slugging and home runs. He hit two homers over the weekend, going 5-for-11 (.454) with seven RBIs overall.