MLB Network Breaks Down the Shohei Ohtani MVP Debate in Simplest Terms

What is most valuable on the baseball field? It’s the question that dictates whether Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani will win the MVP.

On MLB Network, Brian Kenny broke down the debate between Ohtani and New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor in the National League race for MVP.

“Shohei Ohtani is, of course, the ultimate all-around player in the history of the game,” Kenny said. “But he’s not pitching this year and he doesn’t play a field position. The twist here is he’s not the prototypical, lumbering power-hitting DH [designated hitter].”

He is on pace to be the first player with 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases. Ohtani currently has 47 homers and 48 stolen bases.

Lindor’s OPS+ and total bases are much lower than Ohtani’s, however, he plays the most difficult field position.

“Ohtani is a much better all-around offensive player, but Shohei Ohtani has zero defensive value.”

Lindor’s contribution on defense could be the deciding factor in the MVP debate. Kenny believes Lindor’s defensive value to the Mets gives the shortstop a legitimate case to win the award.

“I’ll say this, if WAR didn’t exist, I don’t think we could bridge this gap between Ohtani and Lindor,” Kenny said. “Offense would rule the day. But I’ll make the point I made earlier in the week. In the old days before advanced metrics, the baseball writers, the ones who watches the ball games, would sometimes give the award to a shortstop knowing the value of a defender. The old school notion seems to be back. The all-around complete shortstop could be the MVP and it’s very possible to make that case.”

Marty Marion (1944), Phil Rizzuto (1950), Dick Groat (1960), Maury Wills (1962), and Zoilo Versalles (1965) are all notable shortstops to win MVP.

Lindor broke up Bowden Francis’ no-hit bid in the ninth inning of the Mets, Blue Jays matchup on Wednesday. The shortstop tied the game with a solo home run to right field.

Despite the old-school notion of rewarding shortstops for the MVP, it’s important to discuss legacy in the MVP conversation.

Ohtani’s first year with the Dodgers will be talked about for years to come. Could one say the same about Lindor’s season?

Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

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