MLB awards: Way-too-early 2019 award predictions

NL MVP: Trea Turner, Washington Nationals

After breaking onto the scene in 2016, it appeared that Trea Turner would be one of the best players in the league almost immediately. His last two years have been a bit underwhelming by those standards, but he has still been a solid player for the Nats.

In 2018, Turner solidified his case as an elite shortstop, slashing .271/.344/.416 with 19 homers, 103 runs scored, 73 RBI, and a National League-leading 43 stolen bases while playing in all 162 games. He also finished in the top-ten in WAR among NL position players for the first time. This was a very good season for the 25-year-old infielder, but there is still room for improvement.

In 2019, Turner will break out and have his best year yet. He has a rare combination of speed and power, while also playing Gold Glove-caliber defense, which has led to Andre Dawson comparisons. If Turner can put it all together, he is more than capable of winning an MVP award.

There is no reason to believe that 2019 will not be Turner’s year. He now has a full season under his belt and has had an opportunity to adjust to life in the big leagues. The Nats’ lineup is also set up for him to succeed.

With Adam Eaton an entire year removed from his major leg injuries, he should be back to full-strength. If this is the case, he can be an excellent leadoff hitter ahead of Turner. This will give Turner as many RBI opportunities as possible.

Behind Turner, the Nats will have several run-producers, including Anthony Rendon, Juan Soto, and Ryan Zimmerman, giving Turner plenty of opportunities to score.

To top it all off, Turner plays shortstop, a premier position, and plays it well. This only helps his case as MVP.

Turner has been trending in the right direction since debuting in 2015. This should continue, which could result in him being named the National League’s Most Valuable Player.