As the 2025 MLB season unfolds, fans and analysts alike are speculating on which players and managers will distinguish themselves and earn the league’s top honors. Drawing from past performances and 2025 season projections, I made my award predictions for this year, and as the MLB calendar gets ready to turn to May, I still feel pretty good about them:

American League (AL) Most Valuable Player (MVP): Aaron Judge

Aaron Judge continues to be a towering presence in the Yankees’ lineup. In the 2024 season, he delivered an exceptional performance, tying Babe Ruth’s franchise record for first-inning home runs with 16. His overall offensive prowess was evident, boasting a .600 slugging percentage and reaching base 236 times in the first 113 games, mirroring Mickey Mantle’s 1957 feat. With the Yankees’ bolstered lineup in 2025, including new additions like Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt, Judge is poised to have increased protection and opportunities to excel. Early in the season, the Yankees have displayed a record-breaking offensive surge, with Judge contributing significantly, suggesting he is on track for another MVP-worthy campaign. ​

National League (NL) Most Valuable Player (MVP): Fernando Tatis Jr.

Fernando Tatis Jr. has consistently showcased his dynamic abilities, making him a perennial MVP candidate. His combination of power, speed, and defensive skills sets him apart in the National League. Assuming he maintains his health and continues to refine his game, Tatis Jr. is well-positioned to capture the MVP award in 2025.​

American League (AL) Cy Young Award: Garrett Crochet

Garrett Crochet’s transition from the bullpen to the starting rotation has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2024, despite the White Sox’s struggles, he posted a 3.58 ERA with 209 strikeouts, leading to his first All-Star selection. His impressive strikeout rate and ability to limit walks highlight his dominance on the mound. Now with the Boston Red Sox, who demonstrated their confidence in him with a six-year, $170 million contract extension, Crochet is expected to anchor their rotation and contend for the Cy Young Award.

National League (NL) Cy Young Award: Shota Imanaga

Shota Imanaga made an immediate impact in his rookie MLB season with the Chicago Cubs in 2024, recording a 2.91 ERA and 174 strikeouts over 29 starts. His seamless transition from Japanese baseball to the MLB underscores his adaptability and skill. Projections for 2025 suggest continued excellence, with expectations of a 3.57 ERA and 174 strikeouts over 172 innings. If he meets or exceeds these projections, Imanaga could very well secure the NL Cy Young Award.​

American League (AL) Rookie of the Year: Shane Smith

When I first made this list, I chose Red Sox prospect Roman Anthony, thinking he’d be up in the first couple of weeks, but as we approach May, there’s still no sign of Anthony at Fenway. So, in the interest of highlighting on-field performance, I’m going to pivot here.

Instead, I’m going to go with White Sox pitcher Shane Smith. In his first 5 career starts, Smith a 2.30 ERA and 22 strikeouts in 27.1 innings. He also sports a WHIP under 1.00 and a K/BB ratio of 2.4. On April 8th, he pitched six innings of two-hit shutout baseball against the Cleveland Guardians in his 2nd career start. In what has been a bleak start for the South Siders, Shane Smith has been a bright spot on the mound.

National League (NL) Rookie of the Year: Drake Baldwin

Drake Baldwin enters the 2025 season with considerable expectations. As a catcher with a potent bat and commendable defensive skills, he is projected to be a key contributor to his team’s success. Should he perform up to his potential, Baldwin is a strong candidate for the NL Rookie of the Year award.​

American League (AL) Manager of the Year: Alex Cora

Alex Cora’s leadership has been instrumental in the Boston Red Sox’s resurgence. With strategic acquisitions, including the addition of Garrett Crochet, and a focus on developing young talent, Cora has positioned the Red Sox as formidable contenders in the AL. His managerial acumen and ability to foster a winning culture make him a prime candidate for Manager of the Year.​

National League (NL) Manager of the Year: Bob Melvin

Bob Melvin’s steady hand has guided his team through competitive NL landscapes. Known for his tactical expertise and player management skills, Melvin has a track record of maximizing team performance. If his team exceeds expectations in 2025, Melvin is likely to be recognized with the Manager of the Year award.​

As the season progresses, these projections will be tested on the field. However, based on past performances and current trajectories, these individuals are well-positioned to earn MLB’s top honors in 2025.