Shohei Ohtani Dominates MLB Midseason Awards Ballot: Who’s Leading the Race for Second-Half Honors?

Shohei Ohtani is a lock for MLB midseason awards consideration as the second-half ballot opens, with the two-way star already among the front-runners for MVP and Cy Young honors. The latest voting snapshot, released on July 13, 2026, shows him battling Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole for top spots in key categories, while also drawing comparisons to past winners like Mike Trout and Justin Verlander.**

Who’s Leading the Midseason Awards Race?

The ballot highlights Ohtani’s dual-threat dominance as a primary candidate for both MVP and Cy Young. Through July 12, he ranks second in MVP voting (behind Judge) and third in Cy Young (trailing Cole and Max Scherzer). His .312/.431/.650 slash line and 12 HRs/6 wins in 2026 keep him in the conversation for a historic two-way sweep.

How Does Ohtani Compare to Past Winners?

Analysts note Ohtani’s statistical parity with 2023 MVP Aaron Judge (1.100 OPS vs. Judge’s 1.080) and 2022 Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole (3.12 ERA vs. Cole’s 2.93). However, his 15 stolen bases-a rarity for pitchers-adds a unique edge. The ballot also includes dark horses like Ronald Acuña Jr. (MVP) and Corbin Burnes (Cy Young), but Ohtani’s two-way impact keeps him at the top.

What’s Next for Ohtani’s Awards Chances?

The second-half ballot closes on August 15, giving Ohtani a chance to extend his lead. His upcoming series against the Houston Astros (July 15-17) and Dodgers (July 22-24) will be critical. If he maintains his 1.000+ OPS and sub-3.00 ERA, he could surpass Judge in MVP voting by the deadline.

Why This Matters for Ohtani’s Legacy

A midseason award would cement Ohtani’s place among MLB’s elite two-way players. His 2026 performance already mirrors his 2021 Cy Young/MVP sweep, but a second-half trophy could push him closer to Babe Ruth’s 1923 triple crown. The Dodgers’ playoff push-currently third in the NL West-adds pressure, but Ohtani’s individual stats remain the focus.