“You don’t bet against Babe Ruth when he’s in his prime.” That has been the sentiment surrounding Shohei Ohtani ever since he took MLB by storm as a two-way superstar. For years, the MVP conversation in Major League Baseball has felt almost automatic: if Shohei Ohtani is healthy, he’s the favorite. His historic ability to dominate both on the mound and at the plate has made him a near-lock for MVP discussions before the first pitch of every season. But in a bold and surprising move, baseball analyst Tim Kurkjian snubbed Ohtani off his National League MVP pick, instead choosing Yankees slugger Juan Soto.
Juan Soto’s talent is undeniable. The newly acquired Yankees superstar has shown exceptional offensive consistency, elite plate discipline, and power that few in the league can match. He’s already won a World Series and has proven himself as a clutch performer. In 2024, Soto finished with a .313 batting average, 35 home runs, and a league-leading on-base percentage of .421. His ability to get on base and drive in runs makes him a compelling MVP candidate, especially if he carries the Yankees’ offense.
On ESPN’s Baseball Tonight with Buster Olney, Tim Kurkjian explained his rationale while reviewing the 2025 MLB season alongside fellow analysts Hembo, David Schoenfield, and Buster Olney. His reasoning? It wasn’t about diminishing Ohtani’s greatness but about making a conversation-starting choice. “I did listen. I believe we should not pick the MVP Before the season starts we should watch how the season plays out. Of course Ohtani is the MVP every year just by showing up you have …I didn’t because I’m trying to let I’m trying to be different I’m trying to get this off to a rousing start where Buster screams at me after one pick of course he did,” Kurkjian said.
However, choosing Juan Soto over Shohei Ohtani is a significant deviation from popular opinion. Ohtani, who joined the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024, had an outstanding season, finishing second in home runs (54), RBIs (130), and WAR (9.2), while also achieving a .310 batting average. Notably, he became the first player in MLB history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season, leading the Dodgers to a World Series title in his debut year with the team. His remarkable two-way playing ability has set a new standard in the league. Even though he won’t pitch in 2025 due to elbow surgery, his offensive prowess alone makes him a top MVP candidate. He remains one of the most feared hitters in baseball.
The MVP race has often seen surprises. In 2015, Bryce Harper won unanimously at age 22, while in 2016, Kris Bryant followed up his Rookie of the Year campaign with an MVP season. More recently, Freddie Freeman claimed the 2020 NL MVP during the shortened season, despite not being a preseason favorite. Beyond Soto and Ohtani, several other stars could challenge for the NL MVP 2025 crown.
Which other stars could challenge for the 2025 NL MVP?
While Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto are leading the early discussions for the 2025 National League MVP, the field is rich with talent, suggesting a competitive race ahead. There are some other top contenders: Mookie Betts continues to be a formidable presence in the National League. His exceptional defensive skills, combined with a potent bat, make him a perennial MVP candidate. Betts’ ability to impact the game both offensively and defensively keeps him in the conversation year after year. Despite a recent illness causing him to miss two games against the Chicago Cubs, Betts is expected to return promptly, aiming to maintain his high level of play.
MLB, Baseball Herren, USA Arizona Diamondbacks at Boston Red Sox Aug 25, 2024 Boston, Massachusetts, USA Boston Red Sox designated hitter Masataka Yoshida 7 is tagged out by Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Eugenio Suarez 28 during the fourth inning at Fenway Park. Boston Fenway Park Massachusetts USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xEricxCanhax 20240825_szo_qe2_0120
Despite past injuries and a suspension, Fernando Tatis Jr.’s talent is undeniable. His combination of power, speed, and defensive prowess positions him as a strong MVP contender. If Tatis Jr. can maintain his health and return to his previous form, he has the potential to lead the league in multiple offensive categories. Ronald Acuna Jr. made history in 2023 by becoming the first player to record 40 home runs and 70 stolen bases in a single season. His dynamic playstyle and ability to change the course of a game with both his bat and speed make him a continuous threat in the MVP race.
Emerging as one of the most exciting young talents, Elly De La Cruz has showcased a unique blend of power and speed. His impressive spring training performance, including multiple home runs and a refined approach at the plate, suggests a breakout season could be on the horizon. If De La Cruz continues his upward trajectory, he could be a dark horse in the MVP conversation. The numbers don’t lie—the talent pool in the National League is stacked.
Acuña hit .337 with 41 homers last season. Betts posted a 1.012 OPS. Tatis, despite missing time, still flashed 30-30 potential. Add Soto and Ohtani into the mix, and we’re looking at a battle that could come down to the final weeks of the season. Baseball has always thrived on drama, and 2025 is no different. Will Ohtani’s unprecedented two-way dominance keep him at the top? Share your thoughts.
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