Shohei Ohtani Faces Shocking Snub As Analysts Crown Juan Soto The NL MVP Favorite

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For years, Shohei Ohtani has been the face of baseball’s modern evolution, shattering expectations with his two-way dominance as both a power hitter and an ace pitcher. But as the 2025 MLB season looms, a bold and unexpected shift in MVP predictions has ignited a storm of controversy.

Juan Soto, not Ohtani, is emerging as the National League’s MVP favorite—a claim that has sparked outrage, divided experts, and sent shockwaves through the baseball community.

Could this be one of the most disrespectful snubs in recent baseball history, or is there a deeper truth behind the idea that Soto is primed to surpass Ohtani for the league’s most prestigious individual honor?

Let’s dive into the data, arguments, and controversy surrounding this stunning development.

The MVP Battle That No One Expected

When Ohtani signed his record-breaking $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the assumption was simple: He would dominate the National League MVP race.

But several MLB insiders and analysts have thrown a curveball into the debate—tipping Juan Soto, now with the New York Mets, as the frontrunner.

At first glance, it sounds absurd. Ohtani is arguably the most talented player in baseball history, so why are experts suddenly favoring Soto?

The reasons are more complex than they seem.

Why Analysts Are Picking Juan Soto Over Shohei Ohtani

1. Juan Soto Will Be the Unquestioned Star in New York

Unlike his previous stints with the San Diego Padres and New York Yankees, Soto is now stepping into a role where he is the undisputed centerpiece of the Mets’ offense.

He won’t be overshadowed by players like Aaron Judge or Fernando Tatis Jr.
He will be the focal point of every offensive play the Mets run.
More at-bats and more RBI opportunities mean a chance for Soto to pad his MVP case.

With a Mets lineup designed around him, Soto could post career-best numbers—and that alone puts him in a prime position to steal MVP votes from Ohtani.

2. Ohtani’s Injuries and Limited Role in 2025

There’s one massive asterisk hanging over Shohei Ohtani’s 2025 season—he will not be pitching due to his second Tommy John surgery.

Without his two-way ability, he loses his biggest competitive edge.
He is strictly a designated hitter, meaning he has zero defensive value.
His health is still a lingering concern, with some questioning whether his power will be the same post-surgery.

For years, Ohtani’s MVP dominance has come from the fact that he was essentially two players in one. If he’s now “only” an elite hitter, does he still have a clear path to the MVP award?

3. Soto’s Offensive Dominance Could Be Historic

Let’s talk numbers. Even in seasons where Soto’s teams struggled, his offensive output has remained elite.

He has led MLB in walks multiple times, showcasing legendary plate discipline.
His on-base percentage (OBP) is consistently among the best in baseball history.
His slugging and power numbers continue to rise, making him a serious threat for 40+ home runs.

If Soto puts up a .320 batting average, 40+ home runs, and a .450 OBP, while leading the Mets into playoff contention, wouldn’t that be an MVP-worthy season?

4. The Weight of Expectations Could Hurt Ohtani

Ohtani’s record-breaking contract has made him the most scrutinized player in MLB. Even if he posts an elite offensive season, some may argue that he didn’t meet the astronomical expectations set for him.

For instance:

If he only hits 35 home runs and drives in 100 RBIs, some may view it as a letdown.
If the Dodgers’ stacked lineup means he doesn’t stand out statistically, will he still get MVP votes?
Without pitching, Ohtani’s value compared to other elite hitters is suddenly more debatable.

Meanwhile, Soto enters 2025 with lower expectations, making it easier for him to exceed them and win over MVP voters.

The Backlash: Is This the Ultimate Disrespect to Ohtani?

Many fans and analysts aren’t buying it.

The idea that Ohtani—a once-in-a-lifetime player—could be snubbed for MVP before the season even starts has sparked outrage on social media.

The Case for Ohtani as MVP

Even as a DH-only player, Ohtani is still one of the best hitters in baseball.
He smashed 44 home runs in 2023, proving that he doesn’t need to pitch to be an offensive juggernaut.
The Dodgers’ loaded lineup will give him more protection than ever before, likely boosting his RBI and home run totals.
MVP voters love historic storylines—if Ohtani dominates in his first full season in L.A., that alone could win him votes.

So, why are analysts suddenly downplaying Ohtani’s MVP chances?

Some believe media fatigue is setting in. After winning two MVPs already, some voters may feel inclined to reward someone new—like Soto.

Could This Be Baseball’s Most Controversial MVP Race Ever?

Regardless of who ultimately wins, the 2025 National League MVP battle is shaping up to be one of the most intense and divisive races in baseball history.

Here’s what we know:

Juan Soto has a real shot at putting up historic offensive numbers in a Mets lineup built around him.
Shohei Ohtani is still a generational talent, but without his pitching, his MVP case isn’t as clear-cut.
The media narrative and voter fatigue could play a bigger role than ever before.