Ranking the Top Five NL MVP Candidates in 2016
By Nick Fustor
Honorable Mentions
Buster Posey is without a doubt the best catcher in the game, and he’ll likely be in contention for the award for a majority of the season. Consider Posey interchangeable with the number five player on this list.
A.J. Pollock
Pollock enjoyed a spectacular 2015 campaign and is considered one of the best outfielders in the game, but it’s likely he’ll be overshadowed by teammate Paul Goldschmidt.
Arguably the best first baseman in the NL, Votto enjoyed a bounce-back season in 2015 that saw him hit virtually everything. Playing for the rebuilding Cincinnati Reds diminishes his chances at the award, however.
The entire Chicago Cubs lineup could conceivably garner MVP consideration at some point in their careers, but first baseman Anthony Rizzo and newly signed outfielder Jason Heyward figure to be among the team’s top contributors in 2016. If Heyward can add some power, he’ll be a hot name come voting time.
Like Votto, Arenado is stuck with a rebuilding team in the Colorado Rockies, and despite his efforts, another outstanding season will be clouded by his team’s likely sub-.500 record.
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