Crow-Armstrong's Three-Homer Day Solidifies NL MVP Favorite Status
Pete Crow-Armstrong became the overwhelming favorite for the National League MVP award after hitting three home runs and driving in six runs in a 17-5 Cubs victory. He now holds a -1100 odds lead, with Shohei Ohtani trailing at +600. Crow-Armstrong's season line includes a .282 average, 36 homers, 89 RBIs, and 32 stolen bases.
Crow-Armstrong's Saturday outburst pushed him to the brink of a 40-40 season, with 32 stolen bases complementing his 36 home runs. His defensive metrics also bolster his case, as he ranks third in defensive runs saved among MLB center fielders and second in outs above average among all fielders. The Cubs sit second in the NL Central and lead the NL Wild Card race at 77-59.
Ohtani's candidacy remains complicated by injury, as he is currently sidelined from pitching due to left knee and right biceps issues. Despite a strong offensive line and an 8-2 record with a 1.79 ERA, his reduced workload may hurt his chances. Crow-Armstrong's odds have now shifted dramatically, making the race appear all but decided.
This MVP race could reshape how fans and analysts value two-way contributions versus all-around excellence. Crow-Armstrong's combination of power, speed, and defense may influence future award discussions, potentially elevating the importance of defensive metrics in voter consideration. Ohtani's injury struggles could also prompt broader conversations about workload management for two-way players, affecting how teams deploy their stars. The Cubs' playoff push may gain momentum from this narrative, drawing increased attention to the team and its young center fielder.