Central STL News

The MLB awards season is heating up as the 2025 schedule moves past the All-Star break. With over 60 percent of games played, speculation about potential award winners is rife. MLB.com tasked six writers and researchers to identify dark horse candidates for the six major awards presented by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA): AL and NL MVP, AL and NL Cy Young, and AL and NL Rookie of the Year.

Riley Greene of the Detroit Tigers is highlighted as a dark horse for the AL MVP. "Just 24 years old, Greene has already slugged 25 home runs this season," noted Brian Murphy. Despite some flaws in his game, Greene's performance has made him a contender.

For the NL MVP, Ronald Acuña Jr. from the Atlanta Braves is mentioned as a potential candidate. Jeffrey Lutz pointed out that Acuña "is doing his part" with impressive stats despite previous injuries.

Jacob deGrom of the Texas Rangers emerges as a candidate for the AL Cy Young Award. Brent Maguire emphasized deGrom's strong comeback this season with a "2.32 ERA" and his potential to win a third Cy Young Award.

Cristopher Sánchez from the Philadelphia Phillies is considered for the NL Cy Young Award. Jared Greenspan highlighted Sánchez's recent performance, stating he "has pitched like an ace" since June.

Noah Cameron of the Kansas City Royals stands out as a candidate for AL Rookie of the Year. Shanthi Sepe-Chepuru described Cameron's journey from being a seventh-round pick to becoming a legitimate prospect with notable stats.

Finally, Yohel Pozo from St. Louis Cardinals is mentioned as an NL Rookie of the Year candidate. Jason Foster remarked on Pozo's return to Major League Baseball after years in Minor Leagues and personal challenges.

The outcomes remain uncertain as there is still time left in the season for these players to make their mark.