In the illustrious history of MLB’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, legends like Ted Williams, Barry Bonds, Mickey Mantle, and Shohei Ohtani and Ronald Acuña Jr. have left an indelible mark. However, not all MVP seasons are created equal. Some are remarkable for the year they occurred, while others stand as all-time greats.
Let’s delve into the top 10 MVP seasons, a collection of greatness where every player deserves honor:
1. Barry Bonds, 2001 NL (Giants)
– Key stats: 259 OPS+, 73 HR, 177 BB
– Bonds’ record-breaking 73 home runs makes this season iconic.
2. Bob Gibson, 1968 NL (Cardinals)
– Key stats: 1.12 ERA, 258 ERA+, 13 shutouts
– A pitching masterpiece that sets the standard for greatness.
3. Barry Bonds, 2004 NL (Giants)
– Key stats: 263 OPS+, 232 BB, 120 IBB
– Despite minimal defensive play, Bonds’ .609 OBP shines.
4. Mickey Mantle, 1956 AL (Yankees)
– Key stats: 210 OPS+, 52 HR, 130 RBIs
– Mantle’s peak at age 24, a flawless display of prowess.
5. Barry Bonds, 2002 NL (Giants)
– Key stats: .370 BA, .799 SLG, 268 OPS+
– Bonds’ highest OPS+ season showcases unparalleled hitting.
6. Willie Mays, 1965 NL (Giants)
– Key stats: 185 OPS+, 52 HR, 112 RBIs
– Mays’ astounding offensive and defensive feats at 34.
7. Aaron Judge, 2022 AL (Yankees)
– Key stats: 62 homers, 1.111 OPS, 211 OPS+
– Arguably one of the greatest hitting seasons, especially in a challenging offensive environment.
8. Carl Yastrzemski, 1967 AL (Red Sox)
– Key stats: .326 BA, 193 OPS+, 44 HR
– The highest WAR (12.4) on this list, a testament to Yastrzemski’s all-around excellence.
9. Stan Musial, 1948 NL (Cardinals)
– Key stats: .376 BA, 200 OPS+, 131 RBIs
– Musial’s stellar .376 average and career-high homers define this season.
10. Joe Morgan, 1975 NL (Reds)
– Key stats: .327 BA, 169 OPS+, 67 SB
– Morgan’s best year, contributing to one of the best teams in the past 50 years.