Latest MVP poll shows runaway in AL, tightening race in NL

The 2026 Major League Baseball season is deep into the stretch run, and the MVP races are telling a clear story. In the American League, Yordan Alvarez remains the dominant force. With his league-leading batting average, home runs, and RBIs, he keeps the Houston Astros firmly in the postseason picture. Most experts view his campaign as the one to beat, as he remains on pace for historic production levels.

Over in the National League, the narrative has shifted toward a closer competition. Shohei Ohtani holds the top spot, but his status as a two-way player faces questions due to his recent absence from the mound. His production as a hitter keeps him at the front of the pack, yet the gap is shrinking compared to earlier polls. The return of his pitching capacity will likely dictate whether he finishes the season as the clear winner.

Rising stars are making their presence felt in these rankings. Pete Crow-Armstrong is putting up high WAR numbers for the Cubs through consistent hitting and elite defensive range. Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox continue their surge in the standings, with Willson Contreras earning his first appearance in the MVP conversation for his production during the team's recent winning streaks.

Experts base these rankings on both performance to date and expectations for the final weeks of the season. With teams battling for playoff positioning, individual performance remains tied to team success. These races provide a look at who carries the most value for their respective organizations as the postseason approaches.