For most of the season, both the American League and National League MVP races promised riveting suspense in contests too close to call.
Entering Thursday's grand reveal, there's no disputing who will win each award.
Unveiling the three finalists removed some uncertainty from the equation. Thanks to the early tease, fans now know that J.D. Martinez could not overcome the handicap of spending most games inside the dugout as a designated hitter. Nor could Jacob deGrom fight the stigmas of both pitching and residing on a losing club.
Besides, Christian Yelich and Mookie Betts made it easy on voters down the stretch.