Who are the leading candidates for the American League and National League MVP?

As we head down the final stretch of the season, MLB’s brightest stars are putting their best foot forward. Being named Most Valuable Player completely changes the perception of a player’s career, and there are a few guys who have strong cases for the honor this season. We’ll take a look at the AL and NL MVP frontrunners.

Despite Texas’ pitching plans not going according to schedule, the Rangers have enjoyed a resurgent season thanks to their hitting production. In the middle of their production at the plate is Garcia, who has driven in runs all year. He’s been very solid the last couple of years, but has stepped it up a notch here in 2023.

The Angels have a long way to go to get back in the thick of the playoff race. Usually, MVP awards are not given to players on teams that are not contending for the postseason, but Ohtani may be an exception. His historic play as a pitcher and a hitter have kept Los Angeles’ hopes alive, which is a precedent fans and voters aren’t used to taking into account.

It hasn’t always been an easy ride for Boston this season, but they’ve hung around. Quietly, Devers has been one of the best players in the game for a few years, and is having another stellar season. If the Red Sox are able to make one final push and grab a wild card spot, don’t be surprised if Devers garners a lot of MVP attention.

After a blistering start, the Rays have come back to the pack a little bit. Tampa Bay is fortunate to receive contributions from many areas, but Paredes has been a force for them. He probably won’t get the recognition he deserves, but his name should be mentioned as a dark hose candidate for the award.

When the Braves acquired Olson from the Oakland Athletics before the 2022 season, many thought Atlanta would be getting a very good player. It turns out they now have one of the best players in the game, as Olson has completely mashed the cover off the baseball this season. At this point, the NL MVP award is his to lose.

There are few things people can truly count on in life, but the Dodgers being in contention and Betts playing at an MVP-type level are two that baseball fans can bank on. Los Angeles is once again pulling away from their competition in the NL West, and Betts’ ability to strike fear in the heart of the opposition leading off the game is a major reason why.

Other Marlins players have more noticeable power numbers, but Arraez’s proficiency at the plate should not be ignored. He’s had a historic season to date, hitting near .400 for several months. There are not many players who have had the ability to put the bat on the ball like Arraez, which has made Miami’s lineup incredibly dangerous in 2023.

Once again, Acuna is seemingly doing everything there is to do on a baseball field. His power numbers, run production, batting average and stolen bases figures are all impressive, and it’s difficult to identify any holes in his game. Olson may have the leg up in the race for MVP, but his teammate has had an equally impressive campaign.