Pence, a rookie, hit .591 for the week that ended Sunday, with a 1.091 slugging percentage and .625 on-base percentage. He hit two home runs, scored five runs and knocked in five on the week.

Valverde didn't allow an earned run while picking up four saves last week. He allowed only two hits and struck out four.

Other players considered for National League player of the week were: Arizona's Randy Johnson, the New York Mets' David Wright and the Chicago Cubs' Aramis Ramirez.