The MVP Race in Major League Baseball - Predictions for the 2019 Season

As we approach mid-May 2019 in Major League Baseball (MLB), the chase for the Most Valuable Player (MVP) is heating up. The American League (AL) and National League (NL) are still wide open, but certain players are leading the pack. Let's take a closer look at their performances and predictions for the season ahead.

2018 MVP Discussion and Timing

In 2018, the MVP discussions were dominated by Christian Yelich and Cody Bellinger, who were running away with their league's MVP awards. However, it is crucial to remember that the MVP discussions for any given season often begin too early. By May 7, 2019, the discussion had shifted dramatically. Mike Trout and Cody Bellinger were pacing the league, showcasing performances rarely seen before.

It's important to note that an excellent April or May doesn't necessarily guarantee an MVP award. Historical examples like Eric Davis, who had an outstanding season in 1987 but ultimately failed to win the division and was placed 9th in MVP voting, serve as a reminder that consistent performance throughout the season is key.

2019 MVP Candidates

American League (AL)

The AL MVP race is close, with some prominent players leading the conversation. Mookie Betts and Mike Trout are the frontrunners, and they are being compared with other notable players in the league. Here are the top candidates in the AL:

Mookie Betts J.D. Martinez Mike Trout Alex Bregman Jose Ramirez Francisco Lindor

These players are contributing significantly to their teams and the league. Their combined offensive and defensive skills make them serious MVP contenders.

National League (NL)

In the NL, the MVP race has a different flavor. Mike Trout and Cody Bellinger still dominate the discussions, but Jacob deGrom and other pitchers are making strong cases. Here are the top candidates in the NL:

Christian Yelich Javier Baez Jacob deGrom Nolan Arenado Trevor Story

While Christian Yelich is the top position player, the pitching duel between Jacob deGrom and other standout pitchers adds another layer of complexity to the debate. deGrom's dominant pitching has been a significant factor for the New York Mets, making him a strong candidate.

Pitchers and the MVP Debate

While many argue that pitchers shouldn't be contenders for the MVP, the best argument is that MVP stands for Most Valuable Player. In 2019, pitchers like Jacob deGrom are putting up remarkable performances that can't be ignored. The Cy Young Award is another accolade for pitchers, but the MVP is a broader title that encompasses all aspects of baseball.

Furthermore, the Cy Young and MVP awards serve different purposes. The Cy Young focuses on the pitcher's performance, while the MVP evaluates the overall impact on both the team and the league. Thus, it's entirely appropriate to consider contributors like Jacob deGrom, who are making a significant impact beyond just their pitching.

Conclusion

As Major League Baseball continues to play through the 2019 season, the race for the MVP will be closely watched. The AL and NL MVP candidates are showcasing outstanding performances, making it a thrilling year for baseball fans. From Mike Trout's all-around game to Jacob deGrom's dominant pitching, each player brings unique value to their respective teams and the league as a whole.

Stay tuned as the season progresses, and who knows? The MVP could surprise us with a standout performance late in the season.