Shohei Ohtani is on a mission to win his third MVP award in four years, and the Baseball Writers Association of America (BBWAA) instructions to voters make it clear that he is a legitimate candidate for the prestigious honor. As the front-runner for National League MVP, Ohtani’s offensive prowess has set him apart from the competition, despite not playing his customary defense due to recovering from elbow surgery. According to the BBWAA’s criteria, the actual value of a player to his team is a key factor in determining the MVP, and Ohtani’s performance certainly meets that standard.
While no primary designated hitter has ever won an MVP award, the BBWAA’s guidelines explicitly state that pitchers and designated hitters are eligible, emphasizing that there is no strict definition of what “Most Valuable” means. This leaves room for voters to make their own interpretations and decisions when selecting the MVP, with the process being completely transparent as the BBWAA reveals all the ballots cast by the 30 voters.
Ohtani’s remarkable season, marked by his exceptional offensive output and unique 40-40 achievement, has positioned him as a strong contender for the MVP title. His versatility as a hitter and pitcher has made him a standout performer, and he has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike with his outstanding statistics.
As the MVP race heats up, Ohtani faces competition from other deserving candidates such as Marcell Ozuna and Francisco Lindor, who have also showcased impressive performances throughout the season. The dynamic nature of the MVP race, influenced by a mix of statistical analysis and narrative-driven voting, adds an element of intrigue to the final outcome.
With the season drawing to a close, Ohtani’s quest for the MVP title remains a compelling storyline to follow. Whether he can maintain his exceptional level of play and solidify his position as the frontrunner will be a captivating narrative to watch unfold in the coming weeks.
(Top photo of Shohei Ohtani: Skalij / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
