The NL MVP race between Ohtani and Francisco Lindor is closer than you think.
with 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases in the same season, but the Dodgers also have MLB's best record.
However, Ohtani isn't the only National League player having an outstanding season. Francisco Lindor -- another American League transplant -- is generating some MVP buzz as well thanks to his impressive production with the Mets.Coming off a disappointing 2023 campaign where New York finished 12 games below .500, Lindor has helped lead them back into. Entering play on Monday, the Mets are only 2.5 games out of the third NL Wild Card spot with 31 games to go.
As their shortstop and leadoff hitter, Lindor is a big reason why they've stayed in contention. The 30-year-old has played in all of his team's 131 games, leading MLB in games played and plate appearances. He's also put up tremendous numbers, including 27 home runs, 25 stolen bases and an .826 OPS. While Lindor's offensive statistics can't compete with Ohtani's, Lindor has a significant edge on defense. The two-time Gold Glove-winner is one of the best defensive shortstops in baseball and is having another strong season with the leather. Ohtani, on the other hand, is a full-time designated hitter this season and hasn't played a single inning in the field.It's also important to consider both players' impact on their respective teams.
As such, Lindor belongs in the NL MVP conversation with Ohtani, and the trophy is still up for grabs. If Ohtani gets hurt or slumps down the stretch, Lindor could beat him out with a hot finish, especially if he helps push the Mets into the postseason.Tyler is a writer for Sports Illustrated's Inside the Phillies. He grew up in Massachusetts and is a huge Boston sports fan, especially the Red Sox. He went to Tufts University and played club baseball for the Jumbos.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani Has Found a Believer In One Longtime MVP VoterA national reporter calls Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani the NL MVP.
Read more »
Los Angeles Dodgers Star Sets Team Record With Big Game SaturdaySaturday was just another historic day on the diamond for presumptive National League MVP Shohei Ohtani.
Read more »
New Orleans Pelicans Star Just Outside Top 10 of NBA MVP OddsA New Orleans Pelicans star could present some value to people looking to wager on the NBA MVP award this season.
Read more »
New York Knicks PG Can Become MVP CandidateThe New York Knicks could have the league's top player in Jalen Brunson.
Read more »
New Orleans Pelicans Star Named 'Wild-Card Sleeper' for MVP AwardA New Orleans Pelicans star is a player to keep an eye on in the MVP race for the 2024-25 season.
Read more »
Snoop Dogg declares himself the MVP of the 2024 Olympics after traveling with Team USAMove over Olympians, there’s a new MVP in town.
Read more »