Sun Mar 23 12:40:00 UTC 2025: ## MLB Experts Predict 2025 Award Winners: Witt, Ohtani Headline Early Projections

**NEW YORK, NY** – With Opening Day just around the corner, MLB.com polled 59 experts for their predictions on the 2025 Baseball Writers’ Association of America Awards. The results revealed some strong favorites, highlighting anticipated breakout performances and continued dominance from established stars.

**American League MVP:** Bobby Witt Jr. (Royals) was the overwhelming favorite, receiving nearly six times more votes than any other player. His impressive 2024 season, which included a batting title, a 30-30 season, and a second-place finish in the AL MVP voting, solidified his position as the frontrunner. Other players receiving votes include Gunnar Henderson, Aaron Judge, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

**National League MVP:** Shohei Ohtani (Dodgers) emerged as the top pick, garnering more than twice the votes of his nearest competitor. Despite uncertainty surrounding his pitching recovery from elbow surgery, Ohtani’s consistent offensive prowess makes him a strong contender for his fourth MVP award. Juan Soto and Elly De La Cruz were among the other players considered.

**American League Cy Young:** Tarik Skubal (Tigers) is projected to repeat his success after a dominant 2024 season, which saw him win the AL Cy Young Award unanimously. His impressive pitching statistics, including an 18-4 record and a 2.39 ERA, make him a heavy favorite. Garrett Crochet and Cole Ragans also received votes.

**National League Cy Young:** Paul Skenes (Pirates) is predicted to win, capitalizing on his remarkable rookie season in 2024. Despite only making 23 starts, his stellar performance earned him a third-place finish in the NL Cy Young voting last year. Zack Wheeler and Corbin Burnes were also mentioned.

**American League Rookie of the Year:** Jackson Jobe (Tigers) is the early favorite, thanks to strong spring training performances and a promising MLB debut. However, Red Sox prospects Kristian Campbell and Roman Anthony are closely trailing.

**National League Rookie of the Year:** Roki Sasaki (Dodgers) is the predicted winner, generating considerable buzz due to his exceptional pitching skills and impressive World Baseball Classic showing. Dylan Crews and Matt Shaw are among other potential contenders.

**American League Manager of the Year:** Alex Cora (Red Sox) is favored to win, based on the team’s anticipated improvement and strong offseason additions.

**National League Manager of the Year:** Terry Francona (Reds) is predicted to lead his team to a playoff run, leveraging his managerial experience and the Reds’ young talent.

The predictions offer an early glimpse into potential award winners for the 2025 season. However, the unpredictable nature of baseball means the actual results could differ significantly.

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