The National League MVP race in 2025 is shaping up to center around a familiar name and an unexpected challenger, with Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers firmly in the lead. Ohtani’s remarkable performance this season—leading the NL with 26 home runs and maintaining a 1.014 OPS along with 49 RBIs—combined with his pitching contributions, has positioned him as the clear favorite amid the Shohei Ohtani NL MVP odds. Meanwhile, a rising star from the Chicago Cubs, outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, has been rapidly gaining attention as a formidable contender in this competitive field.
Ohtani’s Dominance and Crow-Armstrong’s Breakout Bid
Midway through the 2025 season, Shohei Ohtani’s blend of hitting and pitching excellence keeps him positioned at the top of the MVP leaderboard. His ability to lead the league in key offensive categories while frequently contributing as a pitcher distinguishes him in the crowded field. However, Pete Crow-Armstrong has dramatically moved up the ranks with his versatile skill set. Crow-Armstrong boasts 21 home runs and 23 stolen bases this season, joining the elite 20-20 club early and backing it up with stellar defense in center field. His performance has caused a notable surge from his opening odds of +20000, strongly influencing the race as the Cubs contend for the NL Central crown.
Other Strong NL MVP Candidates Remain in Contention
Beyond Ohtani and Crow-Armstrong, several notable players continue to vie for the MVP honor, though their chances are more distant according to current odds. Arizona Diamondbacks’ Corbin Carroll, highlighted in preseason discussions, has delivered an impressive season, hitting 20 home runs and leading the league with nine triples. Meanwhile, New York Mets’ Pete Alonso has reclaimed momentum with 22 doubles and 64 RBIs, signaling a return to his strong form from previous peak seasons in 2022 and 2023.
Projected Impact and What to Watch in the Second Half
With Shohei Ohtani’s dominant numbers setting a high bar, and Pete Crow-Armstrong’s recent leap narrowing the gap, the latter part of the season promises intense competition for the NL MVP award. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring these players’ consistency, as well as how their teams perform, since team success often influences MVP voting outcomes. The ongoing battle underscores the excitement around the Shohei Ohtani NL MVP odds heading into the final stretch.
The Importance of Responsible Betting in a Growing Sports Landscape
As interest in the NL MVP race and related betting markets grows, it is crucial for bettors to approach sports wagering thoughtfully and with discipline. Setting a clear budget that excludes essential expenses ensures financial stability while participating in bets. Additionally, resisting the urge to recover losses through large wagers helps maintain control and enjoyment. Sportsbooks provide tools such as deposit limits and self-exclusion options, which bettors should utilize to manage their activities responsibly. Recognizing that betting is a form of entertainment and not a guaranteed income is key to sustaining a positive experience in the increasingly popular industry.
Being responsible in betting is less about restriction and more about maintaining awareness and enjoying the thrill without risking serious consequences. New users should note the age requirement of 21 or older for participation, and those facing challenges are encouraged to seek support resources such as 1-800-GAMBLER to ensure safe and informed gambling practices.