2026 MLB American League MVP Betting Odds
It’s never too early to look at MLB American League MVP betting odds, as you can still find solid value…




But there are other intriguing candidates, such as Bobby Witt Jr and Cal Raleigh. Who will win the AL MVP? Will anyone beat out Judge? Or will the Yankees slugger continue to dominate this award?
Keep reading for more on what to watch for and a look at some of the leading contenders.
Note: Odds were correct at the time of writing.

How is the Winner Decided?
The American League Most Valuable Player is decided by ballot, with members of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America placing their votes right before the beginning of the playoffs.
The decision is based on a weighted points system, where writers are looking at a player’s production and considering their team impact compared to others in the AL.
MLB AL MVP Betting Odds
As the 2026 MLB season begins, the American League MVP race is once again headlined by one of baseball’s biggest stars. According to FanDuel odds and comparable market pricing, the AL field features a clear favorite but also a deep group of challengers capable of making a run at the award.
Unlike the National League, where one player has separated from the pack, the AL race appears more competitive, with several elite hitters positioned within striking distance depending on performance and team success.
Top AL MVP Contenders
Here are some of the leading contenders for the award with odds courtesy of FanDuel.
Aaron Judge (+183)
Aaron Judge opens as the favorite to win the AL MVP, continuing his dominance as one of baseball’s premier sluggers. The New York Yankees star is coming off another elite season that included massive power numbers and league-leading production. As long as Judge remains healthy, his combination of home runs, on-base ability, and team success makes him the player to beat.
Bobby Witt Jr. (+450)
Bobby Witt Jr. has quickly emerged as one of the most complete players in the league. The Kansas City Royals shortstop contributes with both power and speed while also providing elite defense. After finishing near the top of MVP voting in recent seasons, Witt is seen as a strong challenger if Kansas City contends.
Cal Raleigh (+700)
Cal Raleigh enters the race after a historic power season, particularly for a catcher. His ability to generate home runs at an elite level gives him a unique profile among MVP candidates. If he can replicate that production while maintaining defensive value, Raleigh could again push for the award.
Julio Rodríguez (+1200)
Julio Rodríguez remains a cornerstone player for the Seattle Mariners. His blend of power, speed, and defensive ability makes him a well-rounded MVP candidate. If he delivers a complete season while leading Seattle into playoff contention, Rodríguez has the tools to climb the odds board.
Nick Kurtz (+1500)
Nick Kurtz represents one of the most intriguing young players in the AL. After a breakout rookie campaign, his power potential and offensive upside have quickly elevated him into the MVP conversation. If his development continues, Kurtz could outperform his odds and emerge as a serious contender.
Other Players in the AL MVP Race
Beyond the top five, several players remain firmly in the mix and could emerge as serious contenders with strong seasons:
| Player | Odds to Win AL MVP |
|---|---|
| Vladimir Guerrero Jr. | +1600 |
| José Ramírez | +1600 |
| Gunnar Henderson | +1700 |
| Roman Anthony | +2000 |
| Junior Caminero | +2700 |
| Pete Alonso | +3000 |
| Corey Seager | +3000 |
These players represent a mix of established stars and rising talent. Veterans like Ramírez and Guerrero bring proven track records, while younger players like Henderson offer breakout potential that could shake up the race.
Betting Outlook
The 2026 AL MVP race offers more balance than its NL counterpart, with multiple players capable of winning the award. While Judge leads the way, his relatively short odds may push bettors to look for value elsewhere.
Players like Witt Jr. and Rodríguez offer a strong combination of production and upside, while mid-tier options such as Guerrero Jr. or Ramírez could provide better returns if their teams exceed expectations.
As always, MVP betting hinges on performance, health, and team success. With a long season ahead, odds will shift significantly—giving bettors opportunities to identify value as the race unfolds.
MLB AL MVP Previous Winners
AL MVP has recently been dominated by Judge, who has won three of the last four awards.
| Year | Player | Team |
| 2025 | Aaron Judge | New York Yankees |
| 2024 | Aaron Judge | New York Yankees |
| 2023 | Shohei Ohtani | Los Angeles Angels |
| 2022 | Aaron Judge | New York Yankees |
| 2021 | Shohei Ohtani | Los Angeles Angels |
| 2020 | Jose Abreu | Chicago White Sox |
| 2019 | Mike Trout | Los Angeles Angels |
| 2018 | Mookie Betts | Boston Red Sox |
| 2017 | Jose Altuve | Houston Astros |
| 2016 | Mike Trout | Los Angeles Angels |
| 2015 | Josh Donaldson | Toronto Blue Jays |
How to Bet On The MLB AL MVP
To bet on the MLB AL MVP, here’s what you do:
- Choose your preferred sportsbook.
- Log into your account.
- Choose the MLB Odds tab on the menu.
- Select “Futures” in the drop-down menu.
- Click MLB AL MVP.
- Tap your pick to add it to your bet slip.
- Place your wager.
