MLB Awards Watch: Top 5 AL MVP candidates thru May

5. Jose Altuve – HOU

.327/.403/.550-41-9-31-15, wRC+ 160, 3.1 WAR

The 5-foot-6 Jose Altuve is packing a lot of pop in his swing these days. Second on the Astros in home runs and RBI, he’s the frontrunner when it comes to OPS, SLG and total bases.

He hasn’t shelved his speed, either, as Altuve’s 15 stolen bases leads the American League and his runs scored are the fourth most.

While Houston may be struggling right now, Altuve certainly is not. Already a three-time All-Star who has twice appeared on MVP ballots, 2014’s batting champion looks like he’s having his best season yet in terms of overall production.

Next: Number 4