Two of the league’s premier sluggers showcased their home run prowess in Week 2 of August, turning in performances that left pitchers reeling and fans cheering. Kansas City’s Jim Thome tore through Federal League pitching to claim Player of the Week honors, while Washington’s Carl Everett brought the thunder in the United League.
Federal League: Thome in Full Beast Mode
Jim Thome has been one of the most fearsome bats in the Federal League all season, and his latest week may have been his most explosive yet. The 24-year-old first baseman posted a .393 average (11-for-28), slugged 7 home runs, and drove in 16 RBIs—all while scoring 8 times across just seven games.
It was a power surge few players in baseball can replicate. His total of 42 home runs now leads the league, and his 99 RBIs and 87 runs scored are pushing him toward a potential Triple Crown chase. Despite a .241 average, Thome’s overall impact at the plate has been massive.
His consistent power output makes him one of the most dangerous hitters in the game and a nightmare for opposing pitchers as the Royals push toward the postseason.
United League: Everett’s Breakout Week
Carl Everett made the most of his opportunities this week, batting .400 (10-for-25) while blasting 4 home runs and collecting 12 RBIs. The Washington left fielder’s ability to come through in run-producing spots gave his club a major offensive boost.
Everett is hitting just .245 on the season, but his 31 home runs speak volumes about his game-changing potential. His slugging streak this week is a sign that he may be finding a groove at just the right time for Washington.
With Everett producing from the middle of the order, the Nationals have a chance to gain momentum in the tightly contested United League standings.
Slugging Their Way Into August
Both Thome and Everett showcased the kind of high-impact hitting that can change a series—and possibly a season. Thome’s dominant week reaffirmed his standing as a top-tier power hitter, while Everett’s timely surge reminded the league that Washington’s lineup is far from one-dimensional.
As the race to October tightens, these kinds of performances could make all the difference. And for now, both hitters have earned their place atop the leaderboard for the week.