As the 2025 Major League Baseball regular season draws to a close, fans and analysts alike are buzzing with debate over who deserves the game’s highest individual honors. The MVP, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year races have each delivered storylines as dramatic as any postseason matchup — from Shohei Ohtani’s two-way dominance to Paul Skenes’ meteoric rise to ace status.
While statistics matter, these awards are also about impact — the players who defined the season, carried their teams, and elevated baseball’s biggest moments. Here’s a breakdown of who should take home the hardware in 2025.
Most Valuable Player (MVP)
American League: Aaron Judge, New York Yankees
Aaron Judge has once again proven that when he’s healthy, he’s baseball’s most complete hitter. Leading the league in batting average (.331), home runs (53), and OPS, Judge carried a Yankees lineup that struggled to find consistency. His combination of elite power, on-base skills, and leadership make him the clear choice.
Runner-up: Cal Raleigh (Mariners) – An incredible 60 home run season from a switch-hitting catcher is historic, but Judge’s all-around dominance gives him the edge.
National League: Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers
Even while pitching less this season, Shohei Ohtani remains the face of baseball’s evolution. He led the National League in several offensive categories while also contributing quality innings on the mound early in the year. His value goes beyond numbers — no one alters game plans quite like him.
Runner-up: Kyle Schwarber (Phillies) – A typical MVP-level year, but Ohtani’s dual threat remains unmatched.
Cy Young Award
American League: Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers
Skubal has emerged as one of the most dominant arms in baseball. His blend of power and precision has led to one of the lowest ERAs in the AL, along with elite strikeout-to-walk ratios. He’s been the heartbeat of Detroit’s resurgence and deserves back-to-back Cy Young Awards.
Runner-up: Garrett Crochet (Red Sox) – A breakout star with electric stuff, but not quite the consistency of Skubal.
National League: Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh Pirates
The rookie phenom has already pitched like a veteran ace. With a sub-2.00 ERA, high strikeout totals, and a fearless mound presence, Skenes continues to be the league’s best pitcher. His command, poise, and dominance make him the easy pick.
Runner-up: Cristopher Sánchez (Phillies) – An excellent season overshadowed by Skenes’ historic debut campaign.
Rookie of the Year
American League: Nick Kurtz, Oakland Athletics
Kurtz has been one of the lone bright spots in Oakland, bringing middle-of-the-order power and a professional approach far beyond his years. His offensive production and consistency have made him an instant fan favorite and the clear frontrunner for AL Rookie of the Year.
Runner-up: Colt Keith (Tigers) – A steady season, but Kurtz’s offensive ceiling wins out.
National League: Cade Horton, Chicago Cubs
Horton’s mature approach and control on the mound have been remarkable for a rookie. He’s racked up quality starts, handled pressure situations, and shown the stuff of a future ace. His performance gives the Cubs plenty to build around for 2026 and beyond.
Runner-up: Drake Baldwin (Braves) – Impressive power numbers, but Horton’s consistency tips the scales.
Manager of the Year
American League: John Schneider, Toronto Blue Jays
Toronto battled injuries, underdog status, and a fierce AL East — yet Schneider guided them to a playoff spot. His player management and tactical adjustments have been outstanding all season.
National League: Pat Murphy, Milwaukee Brewers
Murphy took a roster many wrote off and turned it into a division champion. His old-school leadership and ability to maximize a young rotation make him the ideal pick.
Final Thoughts
This year’s award races reflect the game’s incredible balance of young talent and veteran leadership. From Aaron Judge’s historic power to Paul Skenes’ meteoric rise, 2025 has been a season where stars shined brightest under pressure. When the envelopes open this November, these names should be the ones announced.
3 Comments