For the first time since 2000, each of the six MVP finalists played for postseason teams. It’s a feat that can be attributed both to the pandemic-shortened season—there weren’t enough games for a player from a non-winning club to put up the gaudy numbers to receive enough votes—and to the expanded playoffs.
This year’s race has a clear frontrunner in both leagues—Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman and White Sox first baseman José Abreu—but no consensus favorites. There is a case to be made for any of the six players to win their league’s award.
Let's break down both MVP races.