Updated 2025 MLB Award Landscape

MVP Race: The Established Titans

• American League:

  • Aaron Judge (NYY) remains the -120 favorite after back-to-back MVP campaigns. The Yankees slugger leads all players in WAR since 2022 (21.3).
  • Bobby Witt Jr. (KC) (+425) emerges as the primary challenger, posting 30/30 seasons in consecutive years.
  • Dark Horse: Julio Rodriguez (SEA) (20-1) could surprise with improved plate discipline.

• National League:

  • Shohei Ohtani (LAD) (+145) aims for historic three-peat after recording MLB's first 50 HR/50 SB season.
  • Juan Soto (SD) (+550) benefits from hitter-friendly Petco Park dimensions.
  • Elly De La Cruz (CIN) (+900) leads MLB in sprint speed (30.5 ft/sec) but needs consistency.

Cy Young Contenders: Power vs. Precision

• AL Frontrunners:

  • Tarik Skubal (DET) (+360) posted 2024's lowest WHIP (0.98) since Pedro Martinez's 2000 campaign.
  • Garrett Crochet (CWS) (+400) transitions from bullpen to ace with 12.1 K/9 rate.

• NL Dominance:

  • Paul Skenes (PIT) (+210) features a fastball averaging 99.2 mph with 38% whiff rate.
  • Zack Wheeler (PHI) (+650) continues elite production (2.3 career postseason ERA).

Rookie Battleground: The Next Generation

• AL Spotlight:

  • Kristian Campbell (BOS) (+300) boasts .412 OBP in minors with 70-grade speed.
  • Jackson Jobe (DET) (10-1) possesses MLB's best curveball spin rate (3,200+ RPM).

• NL Watchlist:

  • Dylan Crews (WSH) (+375) shows advanced hit tool (.310 minor league BA).
  • Roki Sasaki (LAD) (+300) brings "Phantom Forkball" with 42% chase rate in NPB.

Betting Insights (via ESPN BET)

Key metrics favoring current leaders:

• MVP favorites average 6.7 WAR over past two seasons
• Cy Young leaders combine for 1,843 strikeouts since 2023
• Top ROY candidates averaged .940 OPS in minor leagues

Note: Odds fluctuate daily. Injuries and mid-season trades significantly impact value.