The 2025 MLB season is past its midpoint, and awards discussions are heating up. With over 60 percent of the schedule completed, there is still room for players to make a push for recognition in various categories. MLB.com writers have highlighted some dark horse candidates for six major awards presented by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA): AL and NL MVP, AL and NL Cy Young, and AL and NL Rookie of the Year.
In the American League MVP race, Riley Greene from the Detroit Tigers stands out. Despite not being among the leading candidates like Aaron Judge or Cal Raleigh, Greene has hit 25 home runs this season. His performance includes a .292 batting average against breaking balls and offspeed pitches, showcasing his growth as a hitter. Brian Murphy notes that Greene’s contributions to a top-performing team make him worthy of consideration.
For the National League MVP, Ronald Acuña Jr. of the Atlanta Braves is mentioned as a potential contender. After recovering from an ACL injury that previously sidelined him during a successful World Series run by his team, Acuña’s current stats include a 1.047 OPS with 13 home runs in 48 games. Jeffrey Lutz suggests that if Acuña can lead his team into postseason contention while maintaining his performance level, he could become a two-time MVP.
Jacob deGrom of the Texas Rangers emerges as an American League Cy Young dark horse candidate despite facing stiff competition from Tarik Skubal and Hunter Brown. Brent Maguire highlights deGrom’s return to form with impressive stats including a 2.32 ERA and over 100 innings pitched this season.
In the National League Cy Young discussion, Cristopher Sánchez from the Philadelphia Phillies is making waves with strong performances on the mound. His ERA stands at 2.50 with significant contributions in FIP rankings and strikeout rates. Jared Greenspan points out Sánchez’s consistent ability to pitch deep into games as key factors in his candidacy.
Noah Cameron of the Kansas City Royals is vying for American League Rookie of the Year honors despite being less hyped than other prospects like Jacob Wilson or Nick Kurtz from Oakland Athletics. Shanthi Sepe-Chepuru emphasizes Cameron’s solid pitching record as noteworthy.
Yohel Pozo from St. Louis Cardinals is identified as a potential National League Rookie of the Year despite limited playing time compared to competitors like Drake Baldwin or Jacob Misiorowski. Jason Foster highlights Pozo’s comeback story after overcoming personal challenges as compelling.
These players continue their quest for accolades amidst competitive fields across both leagues.
