Braves slugger Evan Gattis was named National League rookie of the month for the second consecutive month Monday, becoming the first player to win back-to-back rookie of the month awards since Jason Heyward did it for the Braves in April and May of 2010.
Gattis drove in 16 RBIs in 22 games in May to lead all major league rookies. His six home runs were tied for first with Padres infielder Jedd Gyorko. Gattis is leading all major league rookies in home runs (12), RBIs (32), extra-base hits (23) and slugging percentage (.593).
He produced at a high level without a regular home in the Braves lineup, rotating between catcher, left field and the designated hitter spot during interleague play. Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez has said keeping Gattis in the lineup is one of his top priorities going forward.
Three of Gattis’ home runs in May accounted for the tying or go-ahead runs in the sixth inning or later, two in the eighth inning or later. He also clubbed his first career grand slam.
