"No DH has ever won, no full-time DH" - Shohei Ohtani's potential MVP season threatened by Francisco Lindor and others, per insider

Shohei Ohtani’s bid to claim a second American League MVP award in succession is coming under pressure as other players, particularly Francisco Lindor, are making strong cases for the prestigious prize. In a discussion on the "New York Post Sports" YouTube channel, sports analyst Jon Heyman provided insightful commentary on the heated MVP race. He explained the situation by saying:

"No DH has ever won, I mean obviously, Otani is the favorite but yeah no DH has ever won, no full-time DH." (Time Stamp: 13:39)

Jon Heyman's analysis points out an intriguing historical context: no full-time designated hitter (DH) has ever won the MVP award. While Ohtani’s unique role as a pitcher and hitter makes him a favorite, this historical precedent could play a significant role in the final decision.

"Lindor is clearly an MVP candidate," Heyman said. "He's got a five WAR now. He's only a little behind Otani's 5.5. The only one in between them is Elly De La Cruz, so he's third in WAR. ... Lindor is playing a great shortstop, and he’s hitting great." (Time Stamp: 13:25)

Among other statistical parameters, Francisco Lindor’s WAR currently stands at 5.0, placing him right next to De La Cruz (5.1) and Ohtani (5.5). Above them in the standings are Bobby Witt Jr. (6.9), Aaron Judge (6.6), Juan Soto (6.6) and Gunnar Henderson (6.1).

"Bobby Witt’s an MVP candidate right now, and I think there are several MVP candidates—it’s not all Aaron Judge at the moment," said Jon Heyman (Time Stamp: 14:08)

Francisco Lindor plays a vital role in Mets' turnaround, emerges as MVP candidate

Francisco Lindor has played a key role in the New York Mets' remarkable turnaround this season. The first few months of 2024 were quite challenging for the New Yorkers, since their record was standing at 24-33 by the end of May. However, since then, they have gone on a roll with a 30-15 record since June 1.

For Lindor, the season began slowly, much like it did for the Mets. In the first month and a half of play, he hit only .200 with an OPS below .700. However, since May 21st, Lindor has been tearing it up at the plate with a stellar .315/.395/.590 slash line and an OPS of .985 along with 14 long balls.

This resurgence puts Francisco Lindor in contention for MVP honors. It remains to be seen whether this will be enough to surpass Ohtani, whose batting average is just short of Witt Jr. and Steven Kwan.