2026 MLB National League MVP Betting Odds
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Shohei Ohtani won the honor last season and is once again the frontrunner to win the award again this year, which would make three in a row.
However, there are some other strong players who will be battling to take the honor. Here’s a look at what to expect and betting odds as the race for NL MVP heats up.
Note: Odds were correct at the time of writing.
How is the Winner Decided?
The National League Most Valuable Player is determined by a vote by members of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America, which takes place right after the end of the regular season.
NL MVP is decided through a weighted points system, based on factors such as player production and overall team impact.
MLB NL MVP Betting Odds
As the 2026 MLB season gets underway, the National League MVP race is already drawing attention from bettors. With a mix of established superstars and emerging talent, DraftKings odds highlight a competitive field where performance, team success, and durability will all play key roles.
Unlike team-based futures, MVP betting focuses on individual production, making it one of the most dynamic and unpredictable markets in baseball.
Top NL MVP Contenders
Shohei Ohtani (-145)
Shohei Ohtani is once again the overwhelming favorite to win the NL MVP. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar offers unmatched value as a two-way player, contributing both at the plate and on the mound. His ability to impact games in multiple ways gives him a significant edge over the field, and oddsmakers have reflected that with short odds.
Juan Soto (+800)
Juan Soto is viewed as the top challenger to Ohtani. Now with the New York Mets, Soto combines elite plate discipline with power and improving baserunning ability. Coming off a strong season, he offers value for bettors looking beyond the heavy favorite.
Ronald Acuña Jr. (+1000)
Ronald Acuña Jr. remains one of the most dynamic players in baseball. The Atlanta Braves star can impact the game with both power and speed, making him a perennial MVP threat. If Atlanta finishes near the top of the standings, Acuña’s all-around production could boost his candidacy.
Fernando Tatis Jr. (+1900)
Fernando Tatis Jr. offers explosive upside and highlight-level production. When healthy, the San Diego Padres star has the tools to lead the league in multiple offensive categories. His odds reflect both his ceiling and the risk tied to durability.
Elly De La Cruz (+2500)
Elly De La Cruz represents one of the most exciting breakout candidates in the MVP race. The Cincinnati Reds shortstop possesses elite speed, power, and athleticism, making him a unique threat in multiple statistical categories. If De La Cruz can refine his consistency at the plate and lead Cincinnati into playoff contention, his upside makes him a compelling longshot with significant value.
Other Players in the NL MVP Race (DraftKings Odds)
Beyond the top tier, several players have the potential to emerge as serious contenders with strong seasons:
| Player | Odds to Win NL MVP |
|---|---|
| Bryce Harper | +2200 |
| Kyle Tucker | +3000 |
| Ketel Marte | +3000 |
| Kyle Schwarber | +3000 |
| Paul Skenes | +3500 |
| Rafael Devers | +4000 |
| Pete Crow-Armstrong | +4000 |
| Mookie Betts | +4500 |
| Manny Machado | +4500 |
These players represent a mix of breakout candidates and established stars. Young talents like Elly De La Cruz bring high upside, while veterans like Harper and Betts offer consistent production that could translate into MVP consideration.
Betting Outlook
The NL MVP race in 2026 is shaping up to be highly competitive, with no overwhelming favorite separating from the field. While Acuña and Ohtani lead the odds, the gap is narrow enough that several players could emerge as serious contenders.
For bettors, targeting value is key. MVP winners often come from teams that exceed expectations, meaning players on rising teams can offer strong returns. Additionally, durability and consistent production over the full season are critical factors in award voting.
As the season unfolds, odds will shift based on performance trends, injuries, and team success—creating opportunities for bettors to capitalize on emerging candidates throughout the year.
MLB NL MVP Previous Winners
NL MVP has varied from year to year, but Ohtani look to remain a leading candidate for the forseeable future. Here’s a look at winners of the award since 2015.
| Year | Player | Team |
| 2025 | Shohei Ohtani | Los Angeles Dodgers |
| 2024 | Shohei Ohtani | Los Angeles Dodgers |
| 2023 | Ronald Acuna Jr. | Atlanta Braves |
| 2022 | Paul Goldschmidt | St. Louis Cardinals |
| 2021 | Bryce Harper | Philadelphia Phillies |
| 2020 | Freddie Freeman | Atlanta Braves |
| 2019 | Cody Bellinger | Los Angeles Dodgers |
| 2018 | Christian Yelich | Milwaukee Brewers |
| 2017 | Giancarlo Stanton | Miami Marlins |
| 2016 | Kris Bryant | Chicago Cubs |
| 2015 | Bryce Harper | Philadelphia Phillies |
How to Bet On The MLB NL MVP
To wager on the MLB NL MVP, complete these steps:
- Choose your desired sportsbook.
- Sign into your account.
- Select the MLB Odds tab on the menu.
- Choose “Futures” in the drop-down menu.
- Click MLB NL MVP.
- Add the pick to your bet slip.
- Place your bet.
