MLB Recognizes the Outstanding Players of the Season
In a night filled with recognitions, Major League Baseball (MLB) awarded the most outstanding players of the season. Jacob deGrom, pitcher for the Texas Rangers, was awarded the Comeback Player of the Year in the American League, while Ronald Acuña Jr., outfielder for the Atlanta Braves, received the same award in the National League.
Edwin Díaz of the New York Mets was recognized as the National League Reliever of the Year (Trevor Hoffman Trophy), and Aroldis Chapman of the Boston Red Sox won the American League Reliever of the Year award (Mariano Rivera Trophy).
Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers won the Edgar Martinez Award for Outstanding Designated Hitter for the fifth consecutive year, tying David Ortiz’s record. In addition, Ohtani and Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees were honored with their third Hank Aaron Award as the best offensive players.
Matt Arnold, general manager of the Milwaukee Brewers, was named Executive of the Year for the second consecutive time.
DeGrom, who underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2023, had a remarkable return, achieving a 12-8 record with a 2.97 ERA and 185 strikeouts in 172¾ innings, earning him his fifth All-Star selection.
Acuña, after suffering a knee injury in May 2024, returned with the Braves and was selected for his fifth All-Star. He batted .290 with 21 home runs, 42 RBIs, and 9 stolen bases.
Other players who received votes in the American League were Trevor Rogers, George Springer, Bo Bichette, Trevor Story, Lucas Giolito, and Trent Grisham. In the National League, Robbie Ray, Jesus Luzardo, Clayton Kershaw, Brandon Woodruff, and Carson Kelly were also recognized.
Díaz, who also won the Reliever of the Year award in 2018 and 2022, became the second player to achieve three awards, along with Josh Hader. Díaz had an outstanding season with a 6-3 record, a 1.63 ERA, 28 saves, and 98 strikeouts.
Chapman, in his eighth All-Star selection, had an impressive performance with a 5-3 record, a 1.17 ERA, 32 saves, and 85 strikeouts. In addition, he did not allow hits to 50 consecutive batters.
Chapman’s victory increased the value of his mutual option for 2027 to $14 million. The option will be guaranteed if he pitches 40 or more innings next year and is healthy enough for the 2027 Opening Day roster. Andrés Muñoz and Carlos Estevez were also recognized.
Ohtani, with a .282 average, 55 home runs, 102 RBIs, 20 steals, and 146 runs scored, joins Alex Rodriguez as winners of three consecutive Hank Aaron awards. Ohtani was also named NL MVP.
Judge, who also won the Hank Aaron Awards in 2022 and 2024, led Major League Baseball with a .331 average, in addition to hitting 53 home runs and 114 RBIs, earning the American League MVP award.
Arnold, with the Brewers, achieved the third consecutive title in the National League Central Division.
The Hank Aaron Award winners are selected by a vote of former winners and prominent players, while the designated hitter award is chosen by writers, broadcasters, and club public relations departments.
