MLB Awards: 2017 American League MVP Ballot

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Mookie Betts may not have been able to equal his coming out party from last year, but he was still a major part of the Boston Red Sox success.

Last season, Betts emerged as one of the top MLB players. He finished second in the MVP award and won a Gold Glove and Silver Slugger, producing a .318/.363/.534 batting line with 31 homers and 26 steals. That is an impressive season for anyone, let alone a 23 year old.

This year, Betts’ numbers took a step back, but he was still impressive. He put together a solid .264/.344/.459 batting line, hitting 24 homers and stealing 26 bases. Betts also continued to shine in the field, leading the American League was 28 runs saved in right. He also led the league in putouts and range factor, while ranking fourth in assists.

We are really just starting to see Betts’ ascension into the upper tier of MLB players. A key part to the Red Sox success, Betts is still a couple of years away from his hypothetical prime. A five tool player already, he could be a perennial MVP candidate for years to come.

Mookie Betts is becoming one of the better players in the game today. He may well have an MVP in his future, but it will have to wait.

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