Trevor Plouffe, former Minnesota Twins third baseman, recognizes the impressive numbers Kyle Schwarber is putting up for the Philadelphia Phillies but remains skeptical about his chances of winning the 2025 National League MVP award because Schwarber is primarily a designated hitter. Plouffe explains that historically, MVP voters tend to overlook designated hitters unless their offensive achievements are extraordinary.
Schwarber, who signed a four-year, $79 million contract in 2022, is currently in the final year of that deal. He recently hit two home runs against the Baltimore Orioles on Monday, raising his season total to 40, which leads the National League.
During the latest episode of Baseball Today, hosted by MLB insider Chris Rose, Plouffe shared his opinion on Schwarber’s MVP prospects when asked directly about the slugger’s chances for the next season’s award.
“I mean, he’s MVP vote material,” Plouffe said (2:58). “But you know, they don’t give MVPs to DHs unless you go 50/50. So like, or almost 60/60. I don’t think he’s in the conversation.”
Plouffe acknowledged Schwarber’s importance to the Phillies and the excitement he brings to fans but emphasized that his lack of defensive play significantly diminishes his potential to win MVP honors.
“I just don’t think that he’s going to surpass a Fernando Tatis, a Pete Crow-Armstrong, probably not even a Shohei (Ohtani),” Plouffe said (3:42). “Like, those are the guys that are, I mean, definitely a Shohei.”
Defensive Value and Versatility Give Crow-Armstrong and Others an Edge
Players such as Fernando Tatis Jr. of the San Diego Padres and Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Chicago Cubs contribute significantly on defense, playing outfield positions that help them accumulate higher Wins Above Replacement (WAR), a key metric in MVP voting. Their all-around contributions make them stronger candidates.
Shohei Ohtani, like Schwarber, spends time as a designated hitter but also pitches for the Los Angeles Dodgers, adding considerable value to his team. Ohtani’s unique two-way contributions helped him secure the National League MVP last year despite not pitching extensively during the season.
Ohtani’s 2023 campaign was historic as he became the first Major League Baseball player to achieve the 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases milestone in a single season, finishing with 54 homers and 59 steals.
Chris Rose Comments on Schwarber’s Ranking Among NL MVP Candidates
MLB insider Chris Rose highlighted the emotional impact of Schwarber’s home runs, noting the powerful energy they bring to Philadelphia’s ballpark. Despite this, Rose also expressed doubts about Schwarber’s ability to secure the MVP award in 2025.
“I think we both agree that he’s not, you know, I would have him maybe third or fourth in the NL MVP voting, which, for a pure DH, is pretty damn good,” Rose said on Tuesday (5:20), via “Baseball Today.” “I’d like to know if anybody else thinks that he has a chance of finishing higher.”
Schwarber’s exact standing in the 2025 MVP race remains uncertain. While the Phillies are expected to pursue another contract with their slugger, his skills would be attractive to other teams seeking a powerful bat in their lineup.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 MVP Race and Its Implications
The debate over Kyle Schwarber’s 2025 MVP chances highlights the broader challenge designated hitters face in earning the award unless they deliver historic seasons. Meanwhile, versatile players like Pete Crow-Armstrong, who contribute on both offense and defense, appear to have advantages in MVP voting.
Schwarber’s offensive power remains undeniable, especially as he leads the National League in home runs this year, but his limited defensive role will likely continue to influence voter perception. With other emerging stars and two-way players setting high performance standards, the 2025 National League MVP race promises to be competitive and closely watched.