With the 2024 MLB season underway, fans now have the opportunity to watch the league’s best make electric plays, break records and compete for the coveted World Series Trophy. No matter your favorite team, these players are sure to catch your eye and make a run for their respective league’s MVP award.
1.Ronald Acuña Jr.
Still recovering from an ACL tear that sidelined him for the majority of the 2022 season, Acuña turned heads when he unanimously won the National League MVP award. On his way to this title, Acuña recorded the first ever 40 home run and 70 stolen base season across the American or National League (AL/NL). Fans can expect a lot from this 26 year old whose elite power and speed combo easily makes him the most exciting player in baseball.
2.Mookie Betts
If it weren’t for Acuña’s historic 40/70 season, Betts would easily have been at the top of this list. With a .307/.408/.987 slashline and career best 39 home runs, Betts posted his best offensive season since winning the AL MVP award in 2018. Bett’s move from right field to shortstop, a premium defensive position, reiterates his outstanding defensive ability as he looks to add to his six gold glove awards.
3.Aaron Judge
It’s impossible to overlook the man who hit an AL record 62 home runs to beat out two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani for MVP just two years ago. Having dealt with a series of injuries Judge followed his historic campaign with 44 home runs in just 106 games last season. The addition of Juan Soto moves Judge to center field, where he will undoubtedly receive more action, testing the limits of his already All Star worthy glove.
4.Corey Seager
Fresh off of a World Series MVP award, expectations are high for Seager who has battled injuries for the bulk of his career. The 29 year old All-Star shortstop finished last season as runner-up to Ohtani for MVP despite only playing in 119 games. This did not stop him from leading the AL in doubles (42) or tying his career-high in home runs (33). Many fans are turning to Seager to lead the Rangers offense to another World Series title.
You would think winning two MVP awards in the last three seasons would stick you at the top of this list. Ohtani however, is dealing with his second Tommy John surgery, sidelining him from pitching for the entirety of the 2024 season. Nonetheless his bat remains lethal, having posted a .304/.412/1.066 slashline last season. Now completely focused on batting, fans are eager to see just how much Ohtani is able to improve his bat and win with the Dodgers.
