2. 3B Nolan Arenado – COL
.296/.372/.578, 57 R, 21 HR, 65 RBI, 1 SB, 133 wRC+, 3.7 WAR
Colorado’s new franchise player has been dangerous and consistent all year long. Nolan Arenado hit .308 in April, .269 in May and .311 in June. He has a hefty lead in the NL RBI race at the moment after outpacing everyone else in 2015 with 130 in 2015.
Arenado could be the league’s best defensive third baseman as well. While work with the arm and glove is often overlooked in place of offensive prowess when it comes to the MVP awards, his bulky 3.7 WAR is supplemented by a healthy dWAR of 1.3. Arenado’s UZR of 8.8 is second best at his position throughout MLB (surprisingly, he’s second to Texas’ 37-year-old third baseman, Adrian Beltre).
The Rockies probably won’t make the playoffs again in 2016, prolonging a drought that dates back to the 2010 season, but an MVP doesn’t always have to play on a winning ball club.
Only 25, Arenado led the NL in total bases last season and already has an All-Star, three Gold Gloves, a Silver Slugger and a home run title to his credit. It seems like it’s only a matter of time until the BBWAA realizes an MVP award is inevitable.
Next: Number 1