Bobby Witt shines in MVP race despite Aaron Judge dominance
- Bobby Witt Jr. is tied with Aaron Judge for the top spot in Fangraphs fWAR at 9.6 and is slightly behind in bWAR with 9.5.
- Judge leads MLB in several categories including home runs, RBIs, and OPS, while Witt leads in batting average, runs, and hits.
- Despite Judge's impressive season, Witt's performance, especially in clutch situations, makes him a strong contender in the MVP race.
In the 2023 MLB season, Bobby Witt Jr. and Aaron Judge have emerged as two of the top contenders for the MVP award. Both players have impressive statistics, with Witt tied with Judge in Fangraphs fWAR at 9.6 and slightly trailing in bWAR at 9.5. Judge's season has been marked by remarkable power, leading the league in home runs, RBIs, and OPS, showcasing his ability to perform at an elite level. His contributions as a center fielder and team captain further enhance his value to the team. On the other hand, Witt has demonstrated his prowess in hitting, leading the league in batting average, runs, and hits. His performance in clutch situations is particularly noteworthy, as he leads the American League with a .379 batting average and 1.166 OPS with runners in scoring position. This ability to perform under pressure highlights his importance to his team's success. Witt's defensive skills also stand out, as he ranks third in MLB with 18 outs above average, showcasing his talent as a shortstop. While Judge's contributions are vital, Witt's performance has been crucial for a young team that is showing promise after a 56-win season. As the season progresses, the MVP race remains competitive, with both players making compelling cases for the award. The outcome will depend on their performances in the remaining games and how they impact their respective teams' success.