MVP Showdown: Will Defense Steal the Spotlight from Judge and Ohtani? 

As we gear up for the BBWAA's announcement of the 2024 AL and NL MVP Awards, the debate surrounding the candidates is heating up. With Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani leading the charge based on their impressive fWAR and rWAR stats, the question arises: how much weight should we give to defensive contributions in the MVP race?

Bobby Witt Jr. is a prime example of this dilemma. He finished just 0.8 WAR behind Judge, boasting not only strong offensive numbers but also exceptional defensive skills. If you were a writer in Kansas City, would you advocate for Witt over Judge? Is it time we start valuing defensive prowess more heavily in MVP discussions, or should the spotlight remain on offensive output?

Then there's the unique case of Ohtani. His two-way talent is unparalleled, but does his role as a designated hitter diminish his MVP candidacy in the eyes of traditionalists? Historically, no strict DH has won the award, but with MLB seemingly promoting Ohtani as a face of the league, could this be the year that changes?

Let’s dive into this! Who do you think deserves the MVP title? Are we undervaluing defensive players like Witt and Lindor in favor of offensive juggernauts? And will Ohtani finally break the DH curse? Share your thoughts, bold predictions, and any personal experiences that shape your views on this year's MVP race!