Hey there, baseball enthusiasts! It's time to dive into the midseason awards of 2026, where we celebrate the stars and discuss the surprises of the MLB season so far.
The MVPs: Air Yordan and Shohei the Phenomenon
In the American League, Yordan Alvarez, or Air Yordan as I like to call him, is an absolute force to be reckoned with. This guy is on a tear, leading the league in almost every offensive category. His presence at the plate is intimidating, and his numbers are downright Ruthian. Alvarez is carrying the Astros, a team that's not quite the powerhouse it once was, and his impact is undeniable.
Now, let's shift our attention to the National League, where Shohei Ohtani continues to defy expectations. Ohtani, the two-way superstar, is having yet another incredible season. He's not just a great hitter or a great pitcher; he's both! And when you combine those talents, you get an unbeatable MVP candidate. It's becoming a recurring theme, and I find myself wondering if we need to create a new award just for him - the M-V-Ohtani trophy, perhaps?
LVPs: The Surprising Struggles
On the flip side, we have the Least Valuable Players, or LVPs. In the AL, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the highest-paid first baseman ever, has been a shocking disappointment. His team, the Blue Jays, is struggling, and Guerrero's lack of production at the plate is a major factor. It's a strange turn of events for a player who was once an ALCS MVP.
In the NL, the LVP award goes to Mr. Met, representing the Mets' myriad mistakes. This team has had a strange season, with several acquisitions failing to live up to expectations. From Marcus Semien's disappointing performance to Luis Robert Jr.'s injury woes, the Mets' struggles are a collective effort.
Cy Young Contenders: Schlittler and Misiorowski Shine
Moving on to the pitching awards, we have some exciting contenders for the Cy Young. In the AL, Cam Schlittler has been a revelation. With a league-leading ERA and an impressive strikeout rate, Schlittler has been a dominant force on the mound. His ability to shut down opposing hitters, especially in key situations, is a testament to his skill.
In the NL, Jacob Misiorowski is making waves with his unhittable fastball. Misiorowski is on track to have a historic season, with numbers that are simply mind-boggling. His strikeout rate, opponent batting average, and overall dominance are setting new standards. Misiorowski is a pitcher who makes you think twice about stepping into the batter's box.
Cy Yuk: The Disappointments
Unfortunately, not all pitchers have had a smooth first half. In the AL, Brayan Bello has been a major disappointment. His struggles, especially in the first inning, have been a drag on the Red Sox. Bello's overall performance has been abysmal, and he finds himself at the bottom of several pitching categories.
In the NL, Zac Gallen's decline is a puzzling story. Once an ace for the Diamondbacks, Gallen has seen his numbers take a nosedive. His four-seam fastball, once a weapon, has become a liability. Gallen's struggles are a reminder that even the best pitchers can have off years.
Rookie Sensations: McGonigle and Griffin Impress
The rookie class of 2026 has some exciting talent, with Kevin McGonigle leading the way in the AL. McGonigle's ability to draw walks and control the strike zone is impressive for a 21-year-old. He's on pace for a historic season, and his name will be one to remember.
In the NL, Foster Griffin has emerged as a surprise package. His consistency and dominance on the mound have been a key factor in the Nationals' success. Griffin's story is unique, with a journey that includes stops in Japan and multiple teams. He's a true rookie sensation.
Managers Making an Impact
Finally, let's give credit to the managers who have made a difference this season. In the AL, Will Venable has turned the White Sox around, taking them from a 100-loss team to potential playoff contenders. It's an impressive feat, and Venable's impact is undeniable.
In the NL, Don Mattingly has worked his magic once again. Taking over a struggling Phillies team, Mattingly has guided them back into contention. His ability to turn around teams is remarkable, and his managerial skills are a key reason for the Phillies' resurgence.
