Shohei Ohtani Faces Fierce Competition for AL MVP in 2025

The Japanese superstar will return to pitching in the 2025 season, but that does not guarantee another American League Most Valuable Player (MVP) title.

MLB’s Anticipated Return: Spring Training and Opening Day

Major League Baseball’s offseason is coming to a close, and fans are eagerly anticipating the return of America’s pastime. Spring Training is just around the corner, setting the stage for an electrifying 2025 season. The reigning World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, will kick things off against the Chicago Cubs in Tokyo on March 18 and 19.

The Opening Day showdown will feature some of the league’s brightest stars, including Shohei Ohtani, in what is expected to be one of the most exciting seasons yet. However, Ohtani may have serious competition in his quest to repeat as the American League MVP, according to a recent analysis from Essentially Sports.

Experts Question Ohtani’s MVP Repeat Potential

Despite the hype surrounding Ohtani’s return as a two-way player, some MLB analysts are skeptical about his ability to reclaim the MVP award. The Japanese phenom, known for his dominance as both a pitcher and a hitter, is expected to return to the mound in May. However, this does not automatically secure him another MVP title.

ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez has spotlighted Kyle Tucker as a strong MVP contender. The outfielder, who recently made the switch from the Houston Astros to the Chicago Cubs, is on a mission to prove his worth ahead of a potential mega-contract in free agency.

“Still don’t think enough people realize how good he is,” Gonzalez noted. He also issued a bold prediction that might not sit well with Dodgers and Ohtani fans: “Tucker might be my pick for National League Most Valuable Player.”

Ohtani’s Comeback: A Game-Changer for the Dodgers?

As the Dodgers enter the 2025 season, the franchise and fans alike are eager to see if Ohtani can deliver another historic campaign. The 29-year-old two-way star is already focused on making a strong impact in his second season with the team.

Ohtani addressed his readiness at DodgerFest in early February, stating:

“I’ve been able to train every day and I’m really looking forward to getting ready in time for Spring Training and the season.”

However, he acknowledged the complexity of his shoulder surgery, which has made his rehabilitation process more meticulous:

“Shoulder surgery is a complicated surgery compared to the elbow… I had to work on the range of motion. There is some residual effect on the labrum.”

While Ohtani is targeting a return to pitching in May, he remains cautious, avoiding any concrete timelines until he completes his first bullpen session.

“I think we’ll really have a better idea of when I can be on a major league mound,” he stated.

The AL MVP Battle: Who Can Challenge Ohtani?

With Ohtani expected to make a full return, the 2025 MVP race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent history. Aside from Tucker, several other elite players could challenge Ohtani for the prestigious honor:

1. Aaron Judge (New York Yankees)

The Yankees slugger remains one of the most dangerous hitters in the league. If he stays healthy, Judge could put up monster numbers, making him a strong MVP contender.

2. Corey Seager (Texas Rangers)

Seager played a pivotal role in the Rangers’ championship run in 2024. If he continues his elite production, he could make a strong case for MVP honors.

3. Julio Rodríguez (Seattle Mariners)

The young Mariners superstar is already an elite talent. If he takes another step forward in 2025, he could challenge Ohtani for the MVP crown.

4. Yordan Álvarez (Houston Astros)

Álvarez remains one of the best power hitters in the game. If he dominates at the plate, he could be a major threat in the MVP race.

Can Ohtani Defy the Odds?

Ohtani’s ability to play at an elite level as both a hitter and pitcher has revolutionized baseball. However, coming off surgery, the challenge will be greater than ever. His workload, recovery timeline, and ability to maintain his dominance on the mound will all be key factors in his MVP aspirations.

While he remains one of the most talented players in the game, the competition for the 2025 AL MVP award is fierce. As experts and analysts debate his chances, one thing is certain: all eyes will be on Shohei Ohtani when the season kicks off.

Will he make history once again, or will a new face emerge as the league’s Most Valuable Player? The countdown to Opening Day is on, and the battle for baseball supremacy is just beginning.