Major League Baseball (MLB) season is winding down, but things are still buzzing. The league just dropped the list of finalists for its big awards—MVP, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year.
These awards highlight the best of the season. Whenever the finalists come out, fans and analysts can’t help but debate their favorites.
Let’s take a look at who’s in the running, what they’ve pulled off, and why each one deserves a spot among the best.
MLB MVP Finalists
The MVP award stands as one of baseball’s top honors. It goes to players who’ve delivered jaw-dropping performances all year.
This season, the finalists really brought it—skill, grit, and a level of consistency that’s hard to ignore.
American League MVP Finalists
The American League MVP race feels especially tight. Three players have made the cut:
- Shohei Ohtani – The Los Angeles Angels’ two-way star keeps amazing everyone with his work on the mound and at the plate. Ohtani’s rare combo of pitching and hitting at this level just doesn’t come around often.
- Aaron Judge – The New York Yankees’ slugger has put up monster numbers, leading the league in home runs and RBIs. Judge’s presence in the lineup has powered much of the Yankees’ success.
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – Toronto’s first baseman is a nightmare for pitchers, mixing power, average, and on-base skills. Guerrero Jr. keeps pitchers on edge every time he steps in.
National League MVP Finalists
The National League race is just as fierce. Three standouts are battling for the honor:
- Fernando Tatis Jr. – San Diego’s shortstop brings a mix of speed, power, and defense that’s just electric. Tatis Jr. has played a huge role in the Padres’ playoff chase.
- Bryce Harper – Philadelphia’s outfielder has led the league in OPS and kept the offense rolling. Harper’s been a steady force for the Phillies all year.
- Juan Soto – Washington’s outfielder keeps getting on base, leading in walks and OBP. Soto’s patience at the plate has made him a tough out—maybe the toughest.
Cy Young Award Finalists
The Cy Young Award goes to the league’s best pitchers. This year, the finalists have put on a show, making it a tough call for voters.
American League Cy Young Finalists
In the American League, three pitchers have really separated themselves:
- Gerrit Cole – The Yankees’ ace racks up strikeouts and keeps delivering quality starts. Cole’s overpowering stuff has anchored New York’s rotation.
- Lance Lynn – Chicago’s Lance Lynn has posted strong ERA and WHIP numbers. He keeps the White Sox in games with his steady performances.
- Robbie Ray – Toronto’s lefty has led the league in ERA and strikeouts per nine. Ray’s resurgence has been a big lift for the Blue Jays.
National League Cy Young Finalists
The National League Cy Young race is just as stacked. Three pitchers are in the spotlight:
- Max Scherzer – The Dodgers’ veteran keeps dominating, piling up strikeouts and leading in WHIP. Scherzer’s experience shows every time he takes the mound.
- Corbin Burnes – Milwaukee’s right-hander has broken out, leading in ERA and strikeouts per nine. Burnes’ ability to miss bats has pushed the Brewers forward.
- Zack Wheeler – Philadelphia’s Wheeler leads in innings pitched and strikeouts. His durability and effectiveness have kept the Phillies’ rotation afloat.
Rookie of the Year Finalists
The Rookie of the Year award highlights the best newcomers. This season’s finalists have already made a mark and look set for bright futures.
American League Rookie of the Year Finalists
The American League saw several impressive rookies, but three really stood out:
- Randy Arozarena – Tampa Bay’s outfielder has kept his postseason magic going, adding power and speed to the Rays’ lineup.
- Adolis Garcia – Texas’ outfielder has smashed more home runs and RBIs than any other rookie. Garcia’s power and athleticism have given the Rangers a needed spark.
- Wander Franco – Tampa Bay’s shortstop has lived up to the hype, flashing both hitting and defensive talent. Franco’s calm and skill have made him a key piece for the Rays.
National League Rookie of the Year Finalists
In the National League, three rookies have really stepped up for their teams this season.
- Jonathan India – Cincinnati’s second baseman has impressed fans with his steady offense and solid glove work. India’s all-around play has mattered a lot for the Reds.
- Dylan Carlson – St. Louis outfielder Dylan Carlson keeps showing flashes of his potential. He’s contributed with the bat and in the field, giving the Cardinals some much-needed versatility.
- Trevor Rogers – Miami’s Trevor Rogers has been a standout on the mound. He leads all rookie pitchers in both strikeouts and ERA, which is no small feat.
If you want more details about the finalists and what they’ve accomplished, check out CBS Sports.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews
