MLBSep 26
Crow-Armstrong’s all-around dominance sets the pace in MLB awards races
The Cubs center fielder has built an exceptional MVP case, while elite pitching and Alvarez’s offensive production headline the other major races.
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Crow-Armstrong separates from the field
Pete Crow-Armstrong has made a compelling case for a unanimous National League MVP selection with a season that combines elite power, defense and speed. The Cubs center fielder leads the majors with 45 home runs and tops the defensive outs above average rankings. His 38 stolen bases leave him within reach of a 40/40 season, while an 11.1% walk rate reflects a substantial improvement in his patience. His lead in FanGraphs wins above replacement is particularly striking: Crow-Armstrong sits at 10.2, ahead of Bobby Witt Jr. At 6.6. Only three seasons in MLB history have produced a larger gap between the leaders. Other value calculations show a narrower advantage, but his breadth of production leaves little doubt about his standing.
Contrasting cases on the mound
Milwaukee’s Jacob Misiorowski and Yankees right-hander Cam Schlittler are strong Cy Young favorites in their respective leagues, though their routes to dominance differ. Misiorowski relies on a fastball averaging 100.5 mph, using it 63.3% of the time. Opponents have managed a.250 slugging percentage against him, the lowest mark for a starter this century. Schlittler counters with a mix of fastballs, cutters and sinkers, plus a substantial workload advantage. He has thrown 24⅓ more innings than Misiorowski, making durability a central part of any comparison between them.
Alvarez carries Houston’s offense
Alvarez remains the American League MVP front-runner despite cooling offensively. His 1.027 OPS is still 230 points above any Astros teammate, underscoring how heavily Houston relies on his bat. Tampa Bay’s Junior Caminero remains a threat, with his defense at third base adding to his candidacy. Alvarez, however, holds sizable advantages in both on-base and slugging percentage. Opposing managers have also shown their caution through 32 intentional walks. With limited comparable production around him, Alvarez’s ability to keep delivering remains the foundation of his MVP case.
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