Jordy Mercer is the 30-year-old, 6’3” shortstop for the Pittsburgh Pirates. His nonchalant attitude and consistent ability on the dirt is often overlooked because he’s not a flashy player or a power hitter. As a Pirates and MLB fan, I can see that Jordy doesn’t always get the recognition he often deserves. Though I’m biased because Mercer is my favorite pirate, here are seven reasons why Jordy is an underrated MLB shortstop:

1. His .985 fielding percentage during the 2016 regular puts him fifth overall in the MLB.

2. Mercer's .256 batting average ranked him eleventh overall in shortstops this past season.

Mercer mostly hits in the eighth spot during games because he isn’t known as a “power hitter,” however, he is a consistent hitter.

3. Only one other MLB shortstop, Philadelphia’s Freddy Galvis, has played in more games this season and has a higher fielding percentage than Mercer.

4. He worked back from an injury, and came back stronger and more consistent.

In 2015, Mercer experienced a lower leg contusion when at-the-time Milwaukee Brewer, Carlos Gomez, collided with him in order to break up a double play. Mercer was put on the disabled list for six weeks, however, he came back ready to work.

5. Mercer played shortstop and was a pitcher during his time at Oklahoma State…

and in 2008, the Los Angeles Angels originally wanted to draft him as pitcher. He turned them down because he wanted to pursue being a MLB shortstop first, and if that didn’t work out… he’d move to the mound. The Pittsburgh Pirates drafted him in the third round as shortstop and he’s been there ever since.

6. He’s patient at the plate. In the 2016 regular season, Mercer was second overall in walks among National League shortstops.

7. After five seasons as a MLB shortstop, Mercer has knowledge about the game and is often referred to as a “mentor” or “leader” by young players in the Pirates organization.