The Faces of Baseball

SI Staff | Sep 28, 2007

The Faces of Baseball

Alex Rodriguez

Walter Iooss Jr./SI

With baseball's pennant races winding down and the playoffs on the horizon, here's a look at some of the possible difference makers, captured by photographer Walter Iooss Jr.<br><br>With several disappointing postseasons on his resume, A-Rod seeks to silence his critics this October.

David Ortiz

Walter Iooss Jr./SI

"Big Papi" has a reputation for delivering in the clutch, which makes him a difficult out.

Derek Jeter &amp; Mariano Rivera

Walter Iooss Jr./SI

Jeter and Rivera will be title hungry when the postseason arrives.

Jonathan Papelbon

Walter Iooss Jr./SI

Papelbon turned down a starter's role to remain a closer, a position in which he is more comfortable and, when the adrenaline is pumping, very intimidating.

Francisco Rodriguez

Walter Iooss Jr./SI

With a solid trio of starters to set him up (John Lackey, Kelvim Escobar, Jared Weaver), K-Rod can blow away hitters with an overpowering fastball and a devastating slider. As the playoffs get closer, he is one of the most valuable assets a team could have.

David Wright &amp; Jose Reyes

Walter Iooss Jr./SI

As the future of the Mets franchise, Wright and Reyes seek their second consecutive playoff season. Despite a late-season slump, the two all-star infielders intend on bouncing back strong and having an "amazin" postseason.

Vladimir Guerrero

Walter Iooss Jr./SI

The 2004 AL MVP continues to impose his will on opposing pitchers. He has a rocket for an arm, which allows him to be a force on the defensive side as well. With a batting average over .300, more than 25 homers and more that 120 RBI's, Guerrero is anticipating a strong playoff push.

Chase Utley and Ryan Howard

Walter Iooss Jr./SI

In the midst of a wild card race, Chase Utley and Ryan Howard attempt to combine their smooth hitting and power slugging in an effort to propel the Phillies to their first playoff appearance since 1993.