MLB Midseason Awards Race: Judge, Ohtani Lead MVP Talks; Skubal and Skenes Top Cy Young Contenders
July 4, 2025
As the 2025 MLB season approaches its midpoint, the All-Star Game is on the horizon, prompting evaluations of midseason awards for MVP, Cy Young, Rookie of the Year, and Manager of the Year.
Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees is currently the frontrunner for the AL MVP, having an exceptional season that includes leading the league in home runs, OPS, and WAR.
Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners is also a strong contender for the AL MVP, leading all catchers in home runs and RBIs, and could secure a top-3 MVP voting spot if his team continues to perform well.
Tarik Skubal, a pitcher for the Detroit Tigers, is not only a candidate for the AL Cy Young Award but also remains in the MVP conversation due to his ability to deliver strong performances despite his team's offensive struggles.
Skubal is forecasted to win his second consecutive AL Cy Young Award, leading all MLB starters in key pitching metrics.
In the National League, Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates is leading the Cy Young race, edging out Zack Wheeler, while Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers is the frontrunner for the NL MVP, aiming for his fourth award.
Ohtani's impressive offensive contributions and potential return to form as a pitcher make him a historic candidate, competing against players like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Kyle Tucker.
In managerial accolades, Bob Melvin of the San Francisco Giants has been named NL Manager of the Year for his team's unexpected competitiveness, while A.J. Hinch of the Detroit Tigers earned AL Manager of the Year for his effective management of a young roster.
The predicted teams to secure first-round playoff byes include the Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Philadelphia Phillies, based on their current standings.
In contrast, the Atlanta Braves are projected to miss the playoffs due to injuries and underwhelming performances, which may lead to significant roster changes in the offseason.
Among rookies, Jacob Wilson of the Oakland Athletics is leading the American League in batting average, on-base percentage, and OPS, while Drake Baldwin of the Atlanta Braves is recognized as the NL Rookie of the Year.
As the All-Star Game approaches, player performances are expected to shift momentum in the award races, highlighting the dynamic landscape of MLB awards.
Summary based on 4 sources
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Sources

Bleacher Report • Jul 4, 2025
7 Predictions for the Rest of 2025 MLB Season
Heavy • Jul 1, 2025
Tigers Ace Pops Up As AL MVP Favorite
BVM Sports • Jul 4, 2025
Just Baseball’s Midseason Awards
Just Baseball • Jul 4, 2025
Just Baseball’s Midseason Awards