2019 MLB Season: Handing out the hardware

By David Hill | Oct 1, 2019

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 14: Mike Trout #27 of the Los Angeles Angels looks on from the dugout during the first inning of the MLB game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on September 14, 2019 in Anaheim, California. The Rays defeated the Angels 3-1. (Photo by Victor Decolongon/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images) /

National League MVP: Cody Bellinger

The NL MVP race seemed as though it was destined to go down to the final day of the season. And then, Christian Yelich fouled a ball off of his kneecap, ending his season and handing the hardware to Cody Bellinger.

That is not to say that Bellinger wins the MVP by default. He has arguably been the best player in the league this season, leading the majors with an 8.9 bWAR. Bellinger has continued to move between first and right, although with the trade of Yaisel Puig, he spent more time in the outfield than at first.

That change in primary position did not affect Bellinger’s production. He produced a .305/.406/.629 batting line, belting 47 homers and stealing 15 bases. Bellinger was quite the run producer in the midst of the Dodgers lineup, driving in 115 runs to lead the team.

Despite having just 19 games of professional experience in right prior to this season, he acquitted himself well. While he is never going to be mistaken for a Gold Glove caliber player, he cost the Dodgers just one run while playing basically league average defense. As he gets more experience in the outfield, particularly in right, Bellinger could develop into a solid defensive presence.

The Dodgers were, once again, the best team in the National League. Cody Bellinger’s excellent season was a large part of that seventh consecutive NL West title.

Also considered: Yelich, Anthony Rendon, Ketel Marte, Jacob deGrom

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