Despite the brilliance of outfielder Bryce Harper this past season, the Philadelphia Phillies finished with a pedestrian 82-80 record.
One might think that it would be hard for a player on that team to come away with the Nationa League MVP. Think again.
The voting was released on Thursday with Harper being considered a run away winner — earning his second ever MVP award.
- Bryce Harper, Philadelphia Phillies (348 points)
- Juan Soto, Washington Nationals (274 points)
- Fernando Tatis Jr., San Diego Padres (244 points)
- Brandon Crawford, San Francisco Giants (213 points)
- Trea Turner, Los Angeles Dodgers (185 points)
It is somewhat shocking given that those who finished in the top three did not lead teams into the playoffs this past season.
As for Harper earning the award, his stats were outlandish throughout the 2021 season. The six-time All-Star hit .309 with 35 homers and 84 RBI. He led the league in doubles (42), slugging (.615) and OPS (1.044).
Despite those numbers, some were surprised to see Harper come away with the award. Others believe that in a season with no clear-cut favorite on a top-end team, he was worthy.