Judge, Ohtani, or Witt? This is the question on the minds of baseball fans as the American League MVP race heats up. The Guardians have consistently proven their mettle in the American League Central, leading or tying for the top spot since April 14, even while facing stiff competition from the Royals and Twins. Hall of Famer John Smoltz has taken notice of their impressive performance.
During a recent discussion with MLB on FOX analyst Smoltz, insights emerged regarding the Guardians’ formidable pitching staff and the Cy Young candidacy of closer Emmanuel Clase. The conversation also touched on the depth of the Astros’ rotation, particularly in light of Justin Verlander’s struggles since his return from the injured list.
Kavner: Considering the AL MVP frontrunners, who stands out to you the most—Aaron Judge, Bobby Witt Jr., or Shohei Ohtani?
Smoltz: Judge’s ability to blend power and average has significantly transformed the dynamics of his team. This season is remarkable; he has a real shot at surpassing his own home run record. Each player offers unique narratives and compelling arguments for the award. As for Witt, his impact on the Kansas City Royals has made them relevant again. Ohtani’s prowess is well-known, but his recent display of speed adds an intriguing layer to his already exceptional season.
Ultimately, determining who has made the most significant impact on their team will be a close contest. Currently, Smoltz favors Judge slightly over Witt, acknowledging Ohtani’s greatness but noting that his pitching absence limits his visibility this season.
Kavner: With Justin Verlander’s recent challenges, does the Astros’ rotation possess the depth to succeed without him?
Smoltz: Yes, the rotation is still strong. While Verlander’s return to form would enhance their depth, Hunter Brown has been performing exceptionally well. The Astros also boast Yusei Kikuchi and the talented Framber Valdez, making them a formidable contender. While Verlander’s injuries have affected his performance, he still has the potential to bounce back.
Kavner: Who do you believe has the best pitching staff in baseball?
Smoltz: The Guardians are hard to overlook, especially with their strong bullpen. While they may not have the most intimidating rotation, their fundamental approach to the game makes them a challenging opponent. They capitalize on opponents’ mistakes and excel in defense and base running. The Guardians have emerged as one of the most feared teams in baseball, particularly due to their effective bullpen.
Kavner: Emmanuel Clase has had an outstanding year. Does he deserve Cy Young consideration, and what does it take for a reliever to be in that conversation?
Smoltz: Clase is indeed having a Cy Young-worthy season. However, for a closer to win the award, they must stand out in a way that surpasses starters’ performances. In my experience, even with significant saves, the competition can be stiff, and it’s the overall dominance that matters. Clase’s impressive statistic of less than one run allowed per nine innings will certainly make a strong case for him.
Kavner: With the Dodgers planning to rethink pitching development, do you expect teams to make fundamental changes in their approach?
Smoltz: It’s essential for teams to prioritize health over analytics. A shift in focus could lead to better training and development practices. The current trend of frequent injuries is unsustainable, and teams must recognize that to improve their performance.
Kavner: If you were managing a team, how would you implement these changes?
Smoltz: Changing the rewards system is crucial. If incentives do not align with the desired outcomes, training and execution will fall short. It’s not rocket science; teams need to adapt their training methods to prevent injuries and enhance player performance. The ongoing trend of injuries within organizations like the Dodgers highlights the need for a reevaluation of current practices.
As the season progresses, the focus remains on the Guardians’ rise, the MVP race, and the ongoing challenges faced by teams like the Astros. The insights from Smoltz provide a valuable perspective on the current landscape of Major League Baseball.
