Crow-Armstrong Joins Ohtani in NL MVP Race

Shohei Ohtani, since joining the Los Angeles Dodgers for the 2024 MLB season, finally has competition for the National League MVP. Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Chicago Cubs has entered the fray, making a strong case to claim the award.

The two stars clashed in an electrifying game at Wrigley Field. Both hit two home runs, collectively driving in seven RBIs. The Cubs edged out the Dodgers with a 7-6 victory, further boosting Crow-Armstrong’s MVP candidacy.

Pete Crow-Armstrong celebrates a home run during the fourth inning against the Dodgers. (Photo by Matt Dirksen/Chicago Cubs/Getty Images)

After the game, Crow-Armstrong expressed his enjoyment of the MVP buzz. However, he emphasized the award isn’t his main focus.

I would be crazy to say that I don’t want to win an MVP, but if we’re talking about having priorities straight, I think mine are pretty straight, Crow-Armstrong stated, as reported by ESPN. It’s not on the forefront of my mind. It’s fun to joke about it, and it’s fun to acknowledge. And I think it’s absolutely okay to pay attention to, but it’s not like following me up to the plate.

Pete Crow-Armstrong reacts during a game against the Phillies. (Photo by Matt Dirksen/Chicago Cubs/Getty Images)

Although Crow-Armstrong is enjoying the competition, he notes that Ohtani is currently unable to pitch due to knee soreness. Ohtani’s pitching prowess, demonstrated by his impressive 1.79 ERA, adds a significant dimension to his MVP credentials.

Crow-Armstrong humorously acknowledged this, saying, I think if you guys want to talk about all this back and forth, I really should go get in the lab and start pitching. I really should.

Pete Crow-Armstrong stands on deck against the Brewers. (Photo by Matt Dirksen/Chicago Cubs/Getty Images)

As of Thursday morning, Crow-Armstrong and Ohtani are co-favorites for the NL MVP title according to FanDuel Sportsbook. Both have similar batting stats, each with 26 home runs, though Ohtani has a slight advantage in RBIs and OPS.

Mark Harris provided coverage of this developing story for OutKick.