Just weeks ago, Shohei Ohtani was the overwhelming favorite to capture his third consecutive MVP award following the MLB All-Star Break. Although he remains a strong contender, Kyle Schwarber has surged rapidly in the National League MVP odds, challenging Ohtani’s dominance with a remarkable home run pace.
This recent momentum has shifted attention in the baseball world and among betting enthusiasts, making Schwarber’s rise a significant storyline as the season approaches its final stretch.
Current Standings in National League MVP Betting
According to the latest odds from DraftKings Sportsbook, Shohei Ohtani holds the lead with -800 odds, indicating an 88.89% implied probability to claim the MVP. However, this is a decline from his earlier -1300 odds at the All-Star Break, which suggested a 92.86% likelihood.
Behind Ohtani, Kyle Schwarber and Pete Crow-Armstrong are tied at +700 odds, each with an implied probability near 12.5%. Significantly, Schwarber’s odds have improved dramatically from +10000 just weeks ago, reflecting his hot streak since the break.
Kyle Schwarber’s Impact and Performance Since the Break
Since the All-Star Break, Schwarber has played 16 games, posting an exceptional OPS of 1.260 while hitting 10 home runs. His power surge has propelled him to lead the National League in home runs with 40, surpassing Ohtani by two. Additionally, Schwarber tops all of Major League Baseball with 94 RBIs, further strengthening his MVP case.
This outstanding performance has caught the attention of oddsmakers and fans alike, suggesting that if Schwarber maintains this level of production, he could become a frontrunner for the award by season’s end.
Evaluating the Betting Opportunity on Kyle Schwarber
With Schwarber’s MVP odds improving so rapidly, bettors may find value now before his chances shorten further. At +700, Schwarber presents an intriguing opportunity for those seeking to back a player who has clearly accelerated his production in the critical final weeks of the season.
However, with odds shifting frequently, those interested should act promptly to capitalize on this moment before sportsbooks adjust their lines.
What This Means for the MVP Race and the Road Ahead
The narrowing gap between Schwarber and Ohtani highlights how competitive the MVP race remains. Ohtani, a two-time defending winner and a consistent offensive threat, still holds strong odds. Yet Schwarber’s surge adds an element of unpredictability as the National League heading into its final games.
As the season progresses, fans and analysts will closely watch whether Schwarber can sustain his power hitting and RBI production to challenge Ohtani’s reign or if Ohtani will reclaim his dominant position.