Wide Open Race for AL MVP After Shohei Ohtani’s Departure
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Twice in the last three years, Shohei Ohtani won American League MVP honors unanimously. However, with Ohtani now in the National League, the race for the 2024 AL MVP title is looking more wide open. Aaron Judge, the 2022 MVP winner with 62 home runs, is one of the top candidates this year. He has been performing exceptionally well, helping the New York Yankees to the AL’s best record with a .361 batting average and 14 home runs in May.
There are other strong contenders emerging early in the MVP race, including Judge’s teammate Juan Soto, who has been impressive since joining the Yankees. Shortstops Gunnar Henderson from Baltimore and Bobby Witt Jr. from Kansas City are also making their mark in the race, following closely behind Judge in wins above replacement.
Kyle Tucker from Houston is another player to watch, despite being on the injured list after hitting 19 home runs. Ohtani, who is not pitching this season due to elbow surgery, continues to shine with a .310 batting average, 15 home runs, and 14 steals for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The current MLB season has seen a decrease in the number of teams finishing above .500, with only 10 teams achieving this milestone so far. Despite the competitive landscape, there is still a long season ahead with potential for changes in the standings.
In other news, Kansas City’s remarkable comeback against Seattle showcased the unpredictable nature of baseball, with the Royals overcoming an eight-run deficit to secure a thrilling victory.
Trivia Answer:
Players who won MVP honors the year after winning Rookie of the Year include Ryan Howard (2005-06), Dustin Pedroia (2007-08), and Kris Bryant (2015-16).