As we reach the month of June of the 2024 Major League Baseball season, the competition for the National League MVP title is intensifying, with players all over the senior circuit surging into contention for this illustrious honor.
Let’s look at the top 10 National League MVP candidates right now. These players have showcased incredible skill and started fast thus far this season. Who has the edge so far this season? Let’s dive in.
10. Fernando Tatis, Jr., San Diego Padres
Coming off another year with injury and a suspension for using a banned substance, San Diego Padres outfield Fernando Tatis Jr. has been impressive in 2024. This talented all-around player has shown his skills both at bat and in the field, hitting 8 home runs, driving in 24 runs, and maintaining an OPS of .751, playing in all 51 games. While his average has dipped recently, his mix of strength, speed, and style keeps him a strong contender for the MVP title. The Padres are in a position to perhaps surprise, and even with him moving to right field, Tatis has made a huge difference now that he’s healthy.
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9. Shota Imanaga, Chicago Cubs
Pitchers often find it tough to compete for the MVP title, but Shota Imanaga‘s exceptional performance with the Chicago Cubs is hard to ignore. As a skilled left-handed pitcher, he has been outstanding this season, starting 5-0 with a remarkable .84 ERA and 0.91 WHIP in nine starts. Imanaga is crucial to the Cubs’ pitching rotation and a key factor in their success. If he continues to excel on the bump, he could be a top contender for the National League MVP award.
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8. Ronald Acuña Jr., Atlanta Braves
Ronald Acuña Jr. can always drive the Atlanta Braves offense this season, displaying his versatile skills every night. Even with a few injury hurdles, Acuña has struggled a bit at the plate, currently hitting just .247, but has 15 stolen bases in 50 games. As long as he stays healthy and climbs out of his current slump, he’s sure to be in the mix for the National League MVP title as the season progresses.
7. Alec Bohm, Philadelphia Phillies
In his fourth season with the Philadelphia Phillies, Alec Bohm has become a crucial contributor to their offense, becoming the core of their batting order. He’s solidified himself as one of the league’s best third baseman and has showcased both strong hitting ability and a disciplined approach at the plate, hitting .333 with three home runs and 44 RBIs through 48 games. Bohm’s knack for performing under pressure has played a significant role in helping the Phillies jump out to a league-best 35 wins, positioning him as a contender for the National League MVP title as the season rolls on.
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6. Bryce Harper, Philadelphia Phillies
Bryce Harper stands out with his exceptional performance in 2024, making a solid case for the National League MVP title if he keeps it up. His impressive stats of 11 home runs, 36 RBIs and a solid .280 batting average showcase his offensive skills and how much he’s a catalyst for his team. Harper’s consistency in getting on base with a.388 OBP has created scoring chances. His .925 OPS further emphasizes his all-around offensive prowess. As the season continues, Harper’s outstanding play reinforces his position as a top contender for the MVP award, proving his undeniable impact on the game.
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5. Marcell Ozuna, Atlanta Braves
Marcell Ozuna has been a reliable presence in the Atlanta Braves lineup, consistently bringing essential power and driving in runs this season. The experienced slugger has exceeded his impressive stats from last year, hitting 14 home runs, 43 RBIs, and maintaining a .325 batting average in 44 games. Ozuna’s knack for performing under pressure and leading the Braves offense positions him as a strong contender for the National League MVP title as they strive towards the playoffs.
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4. Elly De La Cruz, Cincinnati Reds
Despite experiencing a recent downturn in hitting, Elly De La Cruz is still recognized as one of the most exciting young players in the National League. Known for his speed in the field, the agile shortstop is well on his way to achieving an impressive 30 home runs/ 100 stolen base season, showcasing a remarkable blend of strength and speed. Although his batting average has slightly declined, De La Cruz’s influence transcends mere numbers, positioning him as a player to watch in the National League MVP race due to his pivotal role in energizing the Cincinnati Reds‘ offense.
3. William Contreras, Milwaukee Brewers
William Contreras has been a standout player for the leading Milwaukee Brewers this year, delivering an impressive performance with his bat and skills behind the plate. The 26-year-old catcher has shown remarkable consistency, hitting .335 with seven home runs and 50 RBIs in 48 games. His capacity to manage a demanding position while excelling offensively adds significant value to the Brewers, positioning him as a strong candidate for National League MVP as they short for a spot in the playoffs.
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2. Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers
Shohei Ohtani has been wowing everyone with his outstanding performance at the plate for the Los Angeles Dodgers. This versatile player leads in various offensive stats in MLB, such as batting average, slugging percentage and OPS. Additionally, he has shown his speed by stealing 11 bases. Ohtani’s unique blend of power, speed and flexibility positions him as a favorite for the National League MVP title as he further aims to enhance his already remarkable achievements.
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1. Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers
Mookie Betts is leading the pack in the MVP race thanks to his outstanding performance on both offense and defense. Even with a change to second base this season for the Dodgers, Betts tops the charts in WAR and showcases stellar offensive stats with a .330 batting average, eight homers and nine stolen bases. Betts’ smooth shift to a different position and his knack for influencing games in various ways make him the hands-down leader for the National League MVP title, but the question will be, can he sustain it?