Call to the pen
Fansided

Predicting the 5 MVP Finalists in the National League

By Edward Lennon

NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 17: A detail shot of the 2018 NL MVP award won by Christian Yelich of the Milwaukee Brewers on January 17, 2019 at the Major League Baseball Office of the Commissioner in New York City. (Photo by Alex Trautwig/MLB Photos via Getty Images) *** Local Caption **
NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 17: A detail shot of the 2018 NL MVP award won by Christian Yelich of the Milwaukee Brewers on January 17, 2019 at the Major League Baseball Office of the Commissioner in New York City. (Photo by Alex Trautwig/MLB Photos via Getty Images) *** Local Caption ** /
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(Photo by Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
(Photo by Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

3rd- Anthony Rendon, WSH, 3B

With Bryce Harper off to Philadelphia, Anthony Rendon is now the big weapon in Washington’s lineup. The Nationals hope to return to the playoffs this season, and that will not be possible unless Rendon is an MVP candidate.

Rendon has placed three times in the past, fifth in 2014, sixth in 2017 and 11thlast season. The 29-year-old is coming off a big season and just began one that may surpass it. Though 15 games, Rendon has hit six home runs, eight doubles and 18 RBI, while hitting .397. He is absolutely raking right now and has been the most consistent bat in the Nationals’ lineup.

The third baseman is a former Silver Slugger and might pick another one up this season with the way he has been hitting the ball. On the last year of his contract, Rendon is looking to get paid next season, and he certainly will if he keeps playing like this. He has yet to hit 30 home runs in a singular season, but is on-pace to this year.

The heart of the Nationals’ lineup looks to continue his hot streak all season long. If Rendon continues to play like he is now, he will head into the offseason with better chances of a larger deal after placing high in the MVP voting.

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