The first quarter of the MLB season is coming to a close and its as good a time as any to take a look back at what we’ve seen so far. First, lets take a look at who might win the end-of-season awards if things ended today:
American League MVP – Evan Longoria, 3B, Tampa Bay Rays – In less than a full season, Longoria has turned himself into one of the elite young players in the league. This year, he leads the league in RBI, and is in the top 10 in HRs and batting average and the Rays, who were off to a slow start, look to be getting back on track. Expect him to contend for the triple crown, if not this season, then in the years to come. Also in the running: Justin Morneau, Aaron Hill, Miguel Cabrera.
National League MVP – Albert Pujols, 1B, St. Louis Cardinals – This was a close one, but Pujols is more likely than the other candidates to keep up these numbers throughout the remainder of the season. His batting average is down a little this year, but his stolen base numbers are up and the Cardinals are right in the mix at the top of the NL Central. Also in the running: Adrian Gonzalez, Ryan Zimmerman, Raul Ibanez.
AL Cy Young – Zack Greinke, SP, Kansas City Royals – No-brainer here. He’s 7-1, with the one loss coming in a 1-0 duel with Joe Saunders, and a 0.60 ERA that leads the majors. With a career ERA near 4.00, It’ll be interesting to see if Greinke and the Royals can keep it up. Also in the running: Roy Halladay.
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