Dodgers’ Ohtani wins 3rd MVP, 1st in NL; Yankees’ Judge earns 2nd AL honour in 3 seasons
Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge were the big winners at the Most Valuable Player Awards ceremony, with Ohtani securing his third MVP award and first in the National League, while Judge earned his second American League honour. The Baseball Writers’ Association of America unanimously voted Ohtani as the MVP for the third time, receiving all 30 first-place votes and 420 points. New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor came in second with 263 points, followed by Arizona second baseman Ketel Marte in third with 229 points.
On the other hand, Judge was also a unanimous pick for the first time in his career. Kansas City shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. received all 30 second-place votes for 270 points, and Yankees outfielder Juan Soto secured third place with 21 third-place votes and 229 points.
Ohtani, who previously won the AL MVP in 2021 and 2023 as a two-way star for the Los Angeles Angels, signed a record $700 million US, 10-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers last December. He joined Frank Robinson as the only players to win the MVP award in both leagues and became the first player to twice become a unanimous MVP. Ohtani had an outstanding season, hitting .310, stealing 59 bases, and leading the NL with 54 homers and 130 RBIs exclusively as a designated hitter. He also helped the Dodgers clinch the World Series title despite playing the final three games with a torn labrum in his left shoulder.
In an interview, Ohtani expressed his desire to win another World Series and emphasized his focus on rehab and getting stronger. When asked about the possibility of winning both the MVP and the Cy Young Award in the same year, Ohtani remained humble, stating that his main goal is to return to the mound and showcase his skills.
Additionally, Judge led the major leagues with 58 homers, 144 RBIs, and 133 walks while hitting .322. Witt topped the big leagues with a .332 average, hitting 32 homers with 31 stolen bases and 109 RBIs. Soto batted .288 with 41 homers and 109 RBIs.
Judge, who had a slow start to the season, turned things around and finished strong with impressive stats. He reflected on his journey and credited hard work and perseverance for his success. Judge is the Yankees’ 22nd MVP winner and has proven himself as a valuable player on the team.
Overall, Ohtani and Judge’s remarkable performances have solidified their status as MVPs in their respective leagues. Their dedication to the game and outstanding achievements have earned them the recognition they deserve.
