The 2025 MLB season is still young, but the early MVP race is already heating up, with Juan Soto emerging as the front runner in MLB.com’s latest National League MVP poll. The 25-year-old superstar has edged out two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani as the favorite, showcasing why he remains one of the most feared hitters in baseball.
Elite plate discipline, raw power, and ability to hit in clutch moments
Soto, now in his first full season with the New York Yankees after being acquired from the San Diego Padres in the offseason, has wasted no time making an impact. His elite plate discipline, raw power, and ability to hit in clutch moments have made him a nightmare for opposing pitchers. Through the early portion of the season, he’s been one of the most productive hitters in the league, boasting a high batting average, on-base percentage, and home run total.
Surgery have slightly diminished his MVP odds
While Ohtani remains a strong contender, his transition to the Los Angeles Dodgers’ lineup and his inability to pitch in 2025 following elbow surgery have slightly diminished his MVP odds. Despite this, Ohtani’s bat remains dangerous, and he’s still putting up incredible offensive numbers. However, without his usual two-way dominance, the gap between him and Soto in the MVP race has widened.
Lineup featuring stars
Soto’s presence in the Yankees’ lineup has provided the kind of offensive consistency the team desperately needed. His ability to work deep counts and get on base at an elite rate has helped set the tone for the Yankees’ offense. With a lineup featuring stars like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, Soto has seamlessly fit in as one of the team’s primary catalysts.
National League stars
Of course, the MVP race is far from decided. Ohtani is still capable of putting up historic numbers, and other National League stars—such as Ronald Acuña Jr., Mookie Betts, and Fernando Tatís Jr.—could make a push as the season progresses. However, if Soto continues his torrid start, he could be on his way to his first career MVP award.
With months of baseball left to be played, fans can expect plenty of twists and turns in the MVP race. But for now, Soto stands atop the National League, proving once again why he is one of the game’s brightest stars.