So far, the first 125 games of the season have seen great players do great things. The question, however, remains. Who are the top MVP candidates?
Top 5 NL MVP Candidates
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Teoscar Hernandez
Although named to the “most overrated” baseball player list, there is no question about whether or not Teoscar Hernandez has helped his team. The Los Angeles Dodgers needed players to weather the storm because of injury, and with Shohei Ohtani, Hernandez helped his squad massively. Hernandez’s power this season has been awe-inspiring, as he is on pace to have his best season yet. With injuries to players like Mookie Betts, Max Muncy, and others, Hernandez stood up and led his team to victory in many different games.
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Ketel Marte
Ketel Marte may just be one of the most underrated players in the game. His 30 home runs and .298 average have led the Arizona D-Backs to many great victories. Unfortunately, he landed on the 10-day IL, which might hurt his shot at MVP. However, he has undoubtedly earned a shot at the MVP. Ketel Marte is one pace to easily break his former high 32 home runs and 92 RBIs. With an excellent end to his season, Marte may be able to seriously rival other MVP candidates who have essentially stolen the show.
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Marcell Ozuna
Much like Hernandez, Marcell Ozuna has weathered the storm of injuries the Atlanta Braves have suffered. The Braves needed a player to step up with the injuries to Ronald Acuna Jr., Ozzie Albies, and Austin Riley. Unfortunately, Matt Olson, who previously hit 54 home runs in 2023, has been slumping massively this year. This means that Marcell Ozuna was pressured to perform. He has done that and much more, with 37 home runs this season and a high .309 average. The only reason why Ozuna ranks number 3 on this list is because he is a designated hitter. The differences between him and Shohei Ohtani this season have been tiny.
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Francisco Lindor
Francisco Lindor had an abysmal start to his season in 2024, then exploded. Ever since he put on the Mets uniform, he seems to have lost respect. Lindor has never made an All-Star game as a Mets for no apparent reason. Even though Trea Turner has never played much this season, Lindor seems to have been beaten out. Lindor leads his team in average and RBIs and is the NL leader in WAR. Lindor is on pace to be the only shortstop, along with Bobby Witt, to have back-to-back 30/30 seasons. He is on pace to be the first shortstop to have back-to-back 30/30/30 seasons. He has never stopped playing well defensively as well, which is why he has an excellent argument for the MVP.
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Shohei Ohtani
Shohei Ohtani may not have been number 1 on this if he was not on pace for a 50/50 season. Although he has not pitched this season, most would agree that he is set to become the NL MVP. Ohtani will likely secure another MVP title with 39 home runs, 38 bags swiped, and an excellent average of .291. The Los Angeles Dodgers may not even need him as a pitcher.
Overall, these players all deserve recognition for what they have done this season and serious consideration.
Main Photo Credits: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
