2023 MLB Awards: MVP, Cy Young predictions, results, analysis

ESPNNov 13, 2023, 06:56 PM ET13 Minute ReadExploring the Intriguing National League MVP Race with Dave Schoenfield

As we count down to the dawn of the 2024 season and anticipate major offseason moves, such as Shohei Ohtani’s next destination, the MLB celebrates the top-performing players of the 2023 regular season.

Award celebrations kicked off with Gunnar Henderson of the Baltimore Orioles unanimously claiming the American League Rookie of the Year award, and Corbin Carroll of the National League also securing a unanimous victory.

Here’s a preview of the awards schedule for the week (all awards announced starting at 6 p.m. ET):

Monday: Jackie Robinson Rookies of the Year: Corbin Carroll, Gunnar Henderson
Tuesday: Managers of the Year
Wednesday: Cy Young Awards
Thursday: MVP Awards

Our rundown includes the three finalists in each category, along with insightful previews and our predictions leading up to the big reveal. We will update each section with news and analysis as the awards unfold.

Take a closer look at the Rookie of the Year, Manager of the Year, Cy Young, and MVP races.

American League Rookie of the Year
Winner: Gunnar Henderson

Final tally: 1. Henderson, Orioles 150 (30 first-place votes); 2. Tanner Bibee, Guardians 67; 3. Triston Casas, Red Sox 25; 4. Josh Jung, Rangers 16; 5. Yainer Diaz, Astros 6. Masataka Yoshida, Red Sox 3; 7. Edouard Julien, Twins 2; 8. Anthony Volpe, Yankees 1.

Expert’s picks: Henderson (13 votes) (unanimous choice)

Bradford Doolittle’s take: This year’s Rookie of the Year honor highlights the endless debate of talent versus potential. Outshining his preseason reputation, Henderson overcame a shaky start to become a crucial part of the Orioles’ lineup, finishing with 28 homers. He also transitioned from the hot corner to shortstop, showcasing his versatility and defensive prowess. However, Henderson’s struggles against left-handed pitchers might be a cause for concern, but his potential for further growth is what makes him a formidable presence in the league.

National League Rookie of the Year
Winner: Corbin Carroll

Final tally: 1. Carroll, Diamondbacks 150 (30 first-place votes); 2. Kodai Senga, Mets 71; 3. James Outman, Dodgers 20; 4. Nolan Jones, Rockies 17; 5. Matt McLain, Reds 5; 6. Spencer Steer, Reds 4; 7. Eury Perez, Marlins 1; 8. Elly De La Cruz, Reds 1; 9. Patrick Bailey, Giants 1.

Expert’s picks: Carroll (13 votes) (unanimous choice)

Doolittle’s take: After a powerful start from James Outman, Carroll established his dominance with a stellar .910 OPS during the first month of the season. His consistent and all-around performance, highlighted by 25 homers and 54 steals, solidified his position as a well-rounded rookie. These achievements prove that Carroll is the complete package, and at the young age of 22, he poses a formidable threat to his opponents in the league.

American League MVP
Finalists:
• Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Angels
• Corey Seager, Texas Rangers
• Marcus Semien, Texas Rangers

Expert’s pick: Ohtani (13 votes) (unanimous choice)

What to know: The unparalleled dominance of Ohtani in the 2023 season cements his status as the obvious MVP choice. Leading in various statistical categories, Ohtani’s remarkable performances at the plate and on the mound leave no room for debate. However, his season’s early end and the Angels’ subpar record might cast a shadow over the awards’ weight, though it remains crystal clear that Ohtani’s impact on the game was unmatched.

National League MVP
Finalists:
• Ronald Acuna Jr., Atlanta Braves
• Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers
• Freddie Freeman, Los Angeles Dodgers

Expert’s picks: Acuna (12 votes), Betts (1)

What to know: The overwhelming favoritism towards Acuna underscores the tight race he shared with Betts. Both players boast nearly identical fWAR and bWAR, setting the stage for a closely contested MVP debate – a rarity in a typical season. Although Acuna edges out Betts, this outcome reflects the intensity of the competition and the outstanding performances of both athletes.

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