The National League MVP race has evolved into a compelling duel between Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani and Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. DraftKings lists both players as co-favorites, with their odds fluctuating throughout the season. Ohtani gained back the betting lead recently after briefly ceding ground to Crow-Armstrong. The stretch run could prove decisive, particularly if Ohtani returns to the mound before season's end. He hasn't pitched since July 3 due to knee soreness but has begun a throwing progression that may lead to a late-season return.

ESPN polled over 20 players across nine teams (excluding the Dodgers and Cubs), with Crow-Armstrong winning 15 votes compared to Ohtani's 4, while two voters favored a split MVP. Players praised both candidates. Cleveland's Rhys Hoskins noted the excitement of having competition for what many consider the greatest player ever. Supporters of PCA highlighted his elite center-field defense, base-running prowess, and consistent impact as a position player who takes the field daily.

Ohtani's advocates emphasized his unmatched two-way contributions, particularly his dominant first-half pitching. Some players indicated that if Ohtani returns to the rotation and delivers quality starts down the stretch, the conversation could shift back in his favor. Both players rank atop the NL in key offensive metrics, making this one of the most intriguing MVP races in recent memory.