MLB MVP Race: Who is leading at Midseason

Last Updated on Julho 14, 2026 1:39 pm by Erwin Noguera

The MLB season has reached its midpoint, and the race for the Most Valuable Player Award is beginning to take shape. While more than two months remain before the postseason, the first half has separated several superstars from the rest of the field through elite offensive production, defensive value, and their ability to carry winning teams.

As clubs battle for playoff positioning ahead of the trade deadline, individual performances have become increasingly important. Several established stars are building strong MVP cases, while a handful of emerging players continue to challenge the preseason favorites.

Here is a closer look at the leading candidates in both leagues and what could determine the race during the second half of the season.

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American League MVP Race

Aaron Judge, New York Yankees

Aaron Judge once again sits at the center of the American League MVP conversation.

The Yankees captain has continued to dominate opposing pitching, ranking among the league leaders in home runs, RBIs, on-base percentage and OPS while helping New York remain near the top of the AL East entering the All-Star break. His combination of elite power, plate discipline and defensive value in the outfield has once again made him one of baseball’s most complete players.

Perhaps Judge’s biggest advantage is consistency. Even during stretches when the Yankees’ offense has struggled, he has remained productive, delivering timely extra-base hits and maintaining one of the highest OPS figures in the majors.

If New York wins the division, Judge’s candidacy will only become stronger.

Bobby Witt Jr., Kansas City Royals

Bobby Witt Jr. continues to establish himself as one of baseball’s brightest young superstars.

The Royals shortstop has combined power, speed, and elite defense while keeping Kansas City firmly in the American League Wild Card race. Few players impact games in as many ways as Witt, who ranks among the league leaders in stolen bases while continuing to produce offensively.

His all-around value makes him Judge’s biggest challenger entering the second half.

Cal Raleigh, Seattle Mariners

Seattle catcher Cal Raleigh has emerged as one of the biggest surprises in the MVP race.

Known primarily for his defensive excellence, Raleigh has added tremendous offensive production this season, leading one of baseball’s most improved lineups while helping the Mariners remain in contention atop the AL West. His rare combination of power and elite pitch framing has dramatically increased his overall value.

If Seattle captures the division, Raleigh could receive serious MVP consideration.

National League MVP Race

Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers

Shohei Ohtani remains the player every MVP candidate is chasing.

Although his return to pitching has been carefully managed, Ohtani has continued to dominate offensively with elite power, exceptional plate discipline and consistent production in the middle of the Dodgers’ lineup. Los Angeles once again owns one of the National League’s best records, strengthening Ohtani’s MVP résumé.

Every series seems to produce another highlight-reel moment, reinforcing why many still consider him baseball’s most talented player.

Pete Crow-Armstrong, Chicago Cubs

Pete Crow-Armstrong has taken a major step forward this season.

His elite defense in center field remains among the best in baseball, but his offensive development has transformed him into one of the National League’s most valuable players. His speed has also created constant pressure on opposing defenses, while the Cubs have remained firmly in the postseason picture.

If Chicago wins the NL Central, Crow-Armstrong’s candidacy will become increasingly difficult to ignore.

Juan Soto, New York Mets

Juan Soto has quickly become the centerpiece of the Mets’ offense.

His elite plate discipline, ability to reach base consistently and growing power numbers have kept New York competitive throughout the first half. Few hitters control the strike zone as effectively as Soto, making him one of the league’s most dangerous offensive players every night.

A strong second half combined with a division title could significantly boost his MVP chances.

What Could Decide the MVP Race?

History suggests that team success often becomes the deciding factor in close MVP races.

Judge and Ohtani currently hold slight advantages because both the Yankees and Dodgers remain among baseball’s elite clubs. However, if players like Bobby Witt Jr. or Pete Crow-Armstrong lead their teams to unexpected division titles, voters could reward the broader impact they have had on their organizations.

The final two months before the postseason will also include the trade deadline, where roster additions—or departures—could dramatically influence both playoff races and individual statistics.

Midseason MVP Prediction

At the midpoint of the season, Aaron Judge remains the favorite in the American League thanks to his remarkable offensive consistency and leadership on a first-place Yankees team.

In the National League, Shohei Ohtani continues to set the standard. His offensive production and ability to impact every game make him the player most likely to capture another MVP Award if he maintains his current pace.

Still, the races remain far from decided.

With nearly half the season left, one prolonged hot streak—or one late-season collapse—could completely reshape the MVP conversation before awards voting begins.