rewrite this title Who will win MLB’s top awards this season?

Ohtani won his third MVP in four seasons during 2024, despite being unable to pitch. He will return to the mound at some point in 2025, adding more value for the defending World Series champs.

No player in MLB is ascending faster than Henderson, who won AL Rookie of the Year in 2022 and finishing fourth in the AL MVP vote last year. The leader of the young Orioles, Henderson could be the AL’s most valuable player if he’s able to lead his team to another playoff berth.

The hope was real for the 2023 first overall pick in his rookie season, easily winning NL Rookie of the Year. He enters the season as the NL Cy Young favorite, and there’s probably no one to stop Skenes if he’s healthy all season after the dominance he showed last year.

Crochet emerged as an ace with the White Sox last season, and now has a more high profile role leading the Red Sox rotation. The ERA metrics showed he actually underperformed last season, and will now have the help of acclaimed pitching coach Andrew Bailey.

Sasaki is the clear favorite for NL Rookie of the Year after four dominant seasons in Japan. There are concerns about his arm health this year, but Sasaki is in a great situation to thrive.

Wilson was called up in the second half last season, but didn’t exhaust his rookie eligibility after getting injured. He hit over .400 in the minors, showing the ability to win a Batting Title in his rookie season.

Health concerns formed Francona to retire as Guardians manager following the 2023 season, but he’s recharged this year. He inherits a talented, young Reds roster with the potential to rebound into the playoffs in a weak division.

The Twins had a quiet offseason after a disappointing 2024 season, missing the playoffs. Still, the AL Central looks wide open, and Baldelli has a wealth of talent to get back into shape plus a loaded farm system.

Friedman has long been considered the gold standard of front office executives, and his mastery was on full display again during the offseason. The Dodgers have one of the most talented rosters in recent memory, and Friedman could win Executive of the Year if they have the historic season many are expecting.

After bursting on the scene in his 2023 rookie season, McLain was sidelined due to injury for all of 2024. He enters Spring Training healthy and with a lot to prove.

Bautista was a breakout closer in 2023, but missed all of last season following Tommy John surgery. He’s back in the closer role for the O’s this season, with huge upside for a bounceback.

Diaz had a successful rebound last season for the Mets, but there’s still more in the tank. He didn’t get comfortable until the second half of the year, and has the upside to win his third Reliver of the Year Award in 2025.

There hasn’t been a better reliever in baseball over the last four years than Clase, whose power sinker befuddles hitters. The Guardians need him to show off his elite ability again this season, but Clase is highly capable.

Doyle has won a Gold Glove in both of his MLB seasons, but limped to the finishing line last season due to a calf injury. Better health would make Doyle a strong Platinum Glove candidate.

Gimenez has won the Gold Glove in three straight years for the Guardians. Toronto hopes the trend can continue, and Gimenez could be even more impressive with the aid of the Rogers Centre turf.

Ohtani should be considered the overwhelming favorite as the league’s top DH, though other designated hitters like Kyle Schwarber and Brent Rooker have plenty of ability. Still, Ohtani’s dynamic ability at the plate and on the basepaths could be too difficult for anyone else to overcome him.

Betts has become a leader in the clubhouse for the Dodgers, winning two World Series in five years. After a great showing in last year’s playoffs, Betts is looking to help his team repeat.

Some high profile moves and an elite farm system make Boston a force to be reckoned with in 2025. Devers is the team’s most potent hitter when he’s healthy, with the ability to carry his team in the playoffs.

Hernandez is happy to be back with LA on a three-year deal, and was a key part of their World Series run last season with three home runs and 12 RBI in 16 games. When he’s hot, he can carry the Dodgers in another series.