The Countdown to the 2025 MVP Vote Begins

As we approach the final month of the 2025 regular season, discussions around MVP candidates are heating up across both leagues. Will Shohei Ohtani secure his fourth MVP title? Can Aaron Judge clinch his third AL MVP in four years? With a plethora of standout performances, let's delve into the top candidates for both the American League (AL) and National League (NL) MVP awards.

Top AL MVP Contenders

Maikel Garcia's impressive performance this season has surprised many. Boasting a batting average of .298, 32 doubles, and an .827 OPS, he has demonstrated versatility by playing multiple positions but has shined primarily at third base. His 4.5 WAR ranks fifth among AL position players, evidencing his all-around contribution.

Jeremy Peña, missing a month due to injury, has still delivered an outstanding season, hitting .306 with 50 RBI and an .842 OPS. Originally drafted as a formidable prospect, Peña's strong performance when healthy puts him back in the MVP conversation.

While Julio Rodríguez’s stats may seem modest with a .259 average and .770 OPS, his 25 home runs and a stellar defensive performance could make him a dark horse in the MVP race.

Junior Caminero is another player to watch, having launched 39 home runs and driven in 94 runs. However, his 27 double plays may hinder his ranking among voters.

Bobby Witt Jr. is also in the mix, showing resilience with 41 doubles, 34 stolen bases, and a solid OPS after a formidable 2024 season. José Ramírez continues to be a perennial MVP contender, contributing significantly with 26 home runs and 68 RBI.

Garrett Crochet has shone on the mound, leading the AL in various pitching categories and proving to be a key player for the Red Sox.

The Stalwart Pitchers: Skubal Leads the Pack

Meanwhile, Tarik Skubal is solidifying his place as the best pitcher in baseball with outstanding metrics that position him for a second consecutive AL Cy Young Award.

Cal Raleigh has made history as the first primary catcher to hit 50 home runs in a season and is leading the AL in RBIs, putting him in contention for MVP until the season's end. Aaron Judge remains a favorite, showing longevity and performance excellence despite recent injury concerns.

Encounters in the NL MVP Race

In the NL, Kyle Schwarber matches Ohtani in home runs and leads the league in RBIs, while Ohtani proves his worth with continued dominance at the plate, setting sights on a historic fourth MVP title.

Corbin Carroll and Fernando Tatis Jr. are also notable mentions, with both players showing discipline and impactful defense.

Trea Turner has found his groove, leading the NL in hits and significantly improving his fielding capability this season, making him a serious candidate for MVP contention.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 MVP race is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory as standout individuals from both leagues push to claim the prestigious award. With performances continuing to influence voter sentiment, the next few weeks will be critical in determining this season's most valuable players.