The 2025 AL MVP Race: Early Contenders Making Their Mark

As the 2025 MLB season progresses, the race for the American League MVP is beginning to take shape. Several players are off to impressive starts, with one standout making an especially strong case for the award. Let’s dive into the early leaders in the race for the AL MVP.

1. Aaron Judge, OF, New York Yankees

Average: .414 | Home Runs: 15 | RBIs: 41

Aaron Judge is off to a historic start this season, leading the AL in batting average, home runs, RBIs, and hits. The big man is showing no signs of slowing down, and he’s the driving force behind the Yankees’ strong performance. As the Yankees sit at the top of the AL East with the second-best record in the AL, Judge’s dominance at the plate makes him the clear MVP frontrunner so far. With his powerful bat and consistent play, he’s well on his way to securing his third career MVP award.

2. Bobby Witt Jr., SS, Kansas City Royals

Average: .316 | Home Runs: 5 | Stolen Bases: 16

Bobby Witt Jr. continues to impress after finishing second in the MVP vote last season. He’s a true five-tool player, sitting 4th in hits, 2nd in stolen bases, and 1st in doubles. Witt is carrying the Royals with his all-around play, keeping them relevant at 25-21. While the team still has work to do to make the playoffs, Witt is doing everything he can to keep them in the race. It’s a long season, and if he can keep up this pace, he could be a threat to Judge's MVP lead.

3. Alex Bregman, 3B, Boston Red Sox

Average: .309 | Home Runs: 11 | RBIs: 33

In his first season with the Boston Red Sox, Alex Bregman has been a key piece of their offense, ranking 4th in home runs, 3rd in RBIs, and in the top 10 in batting average. Despite the Red Sox’s up-and-down season (22-24), Bregman has been a consistent force in the middle of their order. While the team is still trying to find its rhythm, Bregman’s steady production is keeping them in the hunt, sitting 2nd in the AL East behind the Yankees. He’ll look to continue elevating his team as the season progresses.

4. Cal Raleigh, C, Seattle Mariners

Average: .250 | Home Runs: 14 | RBIs: 30

Cal Raleigh has been a surprise standout in the MVP race, providing serious power in the Mariners' lineup. With 14 home runs, he’s second in the AL behind Judge and is in the top 5 in RBIs. Beyond his bat, Raleigh’s game-calling and leadership behind the plate have been instrumental in the success of Seattle’s young pitching staff. The Mariners currently lead the AL West, and Raleigh is a big reason why they’re thriving. He’s proving that power at the plate and solid leadership can make a huge impact.

5. José Ramírez, 3B, Cleveland Guardians

Average: .294 | Home Runs: 9 | Stolen Bases: 12

José Ramírez is always a contender in the MVP race, and 2025 is no different. Known for his consistent play, power, speed, and leadership, he’s on pace for another strong season. With 9 home runs and 12 stolen bases, Ramírez is looking to get back to his 40-40 pace, something he predicted at the start of the year. While he may need a power surge to reach that goal, you can always count on José to deliver solid numbers, assuming he stays healthy.

The Road Ahead: Judge Holds a Strong Lead

Although the season is still young, Aaron Judge is in the lead for the 2025 AL MVP. Barring any major changes, he looks like the clear favorite to win the award. His great numbers and leadership are setting him apart from the competition. However, players like Bobby Witt Jr., Alex Bregman, Cal Raleigh, and José Ramírez are making the race interesting. If Judge can keep up his performance, he will stay the front-runner, but we all know the season can take unexpected turns, and other players are ready to make a late push.