The moment all baseball fans were waiting for is finally here. The 2023 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/MLB-Opening-Day-Schedule-2023-Time-of-each-game-and-where-to-watch-them-on-TV-20230328-0024.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Major League Baseball</a> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/MLB-Playoff-Format-2023-How-will-the-baseball-postseason-be-played-20230329-0030.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">season</a> has started, and it seems like it has beenforever since we last saw<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/Who-is-Anthony-Volpe-Age-height-nationality-and-parents-of-the-Yankees-promising-player-20230329-0044.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> the best players</a> on Earth take the field.
As you may know by now, the American League will feature plenty of talent, with some of the strongest candidates, like the Houston Astros or New York Yankees, going toe-to-toe for a World Series ticket.
With the 2023 Major League Baseball season already underway, let’s take a look at the top three candidates to win <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/World-Baseball-Classic-Mike-Trout-on-his-nasty-teammate-Shohei-Ohtani-20230120-0027.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MVP</a> in the American League. Needless to say, you won’t find many shocking names in this list.
<h2>MLB 2023: Top 3 AL MVP Candidates</h2>
<h3>3. Mike Trout</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230330_BUS_217836_mike_trout.jpg_22993414_f04524c7.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Mike Trout — Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Death, taxes, and Mike Trout being an MVP candidate. It’s been a while since he’s been healthy throughout a full season, but Trout always makes a strong case for being the best player on Earth when he’s on the field.
Even though the Los Angeles Angeles have usually been bottom-feeders, Trout is a generational talent, and there’s nothing he can’t do out there, as he proved by leading Team USA to the WBC Final.
<h3>2. Aaron Judge</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230330_BUS_217836_aaron_judge.jpg_22993414_1cd2624f.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Aaron Judge — Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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The reigning American League MVP makes the list again, which doesn’t seem like a surprise at all. Of course, he might not have the pressure of playing on a contract year, but there’s still plenty on the table for Aaron Judge.
The New York Yankees haven’t won the World Series since 2009, and they’re banking most of their success on Judge. He’s their new captain, so motivation will be at an all-time high for him this season.
<h3>1. Shohei Ohtani</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230330_BUS_217836_shohei_ohtani_x1x.jpg_22993414_e00a096a.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Shohei Ohtani — Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Shohei Ohtani is the most spectacular player in all of baseball, and we’re not just talking about Major League Baseball. He’s the most unique player of all time, a modern-day Babe Ruth that looks like something created in a laboratory.
Ohtani can strike you out with a 100 mph fastball and then hit a ball 400 feet and outside of the park, all in the same day. He’s the frontrunner to win MVP for a good reason, and it’ll be tough to overtake him.

MLB Opening Day 2023: Shohei Ohtani and early AL MVP candidates

MLB Opening Day 2023: Shohei Ohtani and early AL MVP candidates - Bolavip US

The World Baseball Classic is set to take place from March 8-21, 2023, from three different host countries, Japan, Taiwan, and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/USMNT-January-camp-roster-is-out-Who-has-most-to-prove-20230118-0028.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">United States</a>. 20 teams from four continents will face off to see which is the best<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/MLB-News-Nathan-Eovaldi-and-the-best-pitchers-still-available-20221226-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Baseball</a> team in the world.
Adapting a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/fifa-world-cup-25-under-the-radar-heroes-q22-20220901-0025.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FIFA World Cup</a> like style the WBC hopes to continue to gain traction for the sport worldwide. Countries like Nicaragua, Czech Republic, and Great Britain will make their first appearance in the tournament, and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-25-highest-paid-players-for-2022-season-20220427-0019.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MLB</a> will be lending some of their biggest names to play in the competition.
Los Angeles Angels will supply the tournament with two big names in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mike-trout-angels-having-best-month-of-mlb-career-20210427-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mike Trout</a> and Japan’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-trade-rumors-potential-destinations-for-shohei-ohtani-20220729-0012.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shohei Ohtani</a>, here is what the center fielder had to say about his difficult to hit pitcher.
<h2>Mike Trout on Shohei Ohtani</h2>
“(He’s) nasty,” Trout said of Ohtani. “Every person I’ve talked to that faces him says they don’t want to be in the box. It’s gonna be interesting and I’m looking forward to it. He’s one of my good friends. It’s gonna be fun.”

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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="412" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:412" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230120_BUS_212027_shohei_ohtani_crop1674246684163.jpg_22069893_7509f078.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=412" width="740" height="412"></figure><figcaption> Shohei Ohtani (Getty Images) </figcaption></figure>
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Shohei Ohtani on the other hand does not need his slugger teammate’s endorsement, his CV speaks for itself, Ohtani has been in the MLB with the Angels since 2018 and has a 28-14 record and 2.96 ERA, with 441 strikeouts. Shohei Ohtani has been a 2-time All Star, AL MVP in 2021, and an AL Rookie of the year.
Shohei Ohtani also has looming free agency after the 2023 season and there could be many takers for his service, but he could also stay in California if he gets a mega deal or finally wins a World Series.

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World Baseball Classic | Mike Trout on his 'nasty' teammate Shohei Ohtani

World Baseball Classic | Mike Trout on his 'nasty' teammate Shohei Ohtani - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-rumors-jacob-degrom-and-superstars-that-could-become-free-agents-20220831-0018.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Major League Baseball</a> season has been one for the ages. Even though the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/dodgers-injury-news-who-will-replace-walker-buehler-20220816-0001.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Los Angeles Dodgers</a> and Houston Astrosmarch strong at the top of the standings, anything can happen <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-postseason-schedule-2022-major-league-baseball-playoff-dates-released-20220815-0017.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">in the postseason.</a>
Needless to say, these teams have been able to thrive thanks to the contributions of some of the best players on Earth. But even among them, some seem to stand out from the rest of the pack.
That’s why today, we’re going to honor them by letting you know about the only three players who could take home the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-news-justin-verlander-and-leading-candidates-for-al-cy-young-20220901-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">American League</a> MVP award this season. Honestly, you couldn’t go wrong either way,
<h2>MLB News: Leading Candidates For American League MVP</h2>
<h3>3. Jose Ramirez</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20220905_BUS_199345_jose_ramirez.jpg_22993414_7075d0cc.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Jose Ramirez – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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The Cleveland Guardians were expected to be bottom-feeders this season, yet they have a chance to win their division. And a lot of that has to do with Jose Ramirez’s stellar play throughout the campaign.
One of the most versatile infielders in the game, Ramirez has been lights out at the plate this season. He’s slashed .280/.350/.535 with 26 homers, 106 RBIs, 14 stolen bases, and a league-leading 39 doubles.
<h3>2. Shohei Ohtani</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20220905_BUS_199345_shohei_ohtani.jpg_22993414_1b6f8410.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Shohei Ohtani- Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Even though the Los Angeles Angels may never be a good team, they’re still must-watch television for as long as Shohei Ohtani is on the roster. He’s the most spectacular player in the game, and it’s not even close.
Ohtani continues to be a two-way phenom. He’s slashing .266/.358/.522 with 30 homers, 82 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases while also going 11-8 with a 2.58 ERA, 1.044 WHIP, and 181 strikeouts in 23 starts on the mound.
<h3>1. Aaron Judge</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20220905_BUS_199345_aaron_judge_x1x.jpg_22993414_8d6997f7.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Aaron Judge- Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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The New York Yankees may not be red-hot as they were at the start of the season, but Aaron Judge hasn’t missed a beat. He’s looking at a $300+ million contract in the offseason after betting on himself and turning down a big offer last winter.
Judge is nearly a lock to win AL MVP regardless of the Yankees’ major slump. He’s having the best season of his career with a slash line of .299/.401/.674, an MLB-best 53 homers, 115 RBIs, 15 stolen bases, and is also leading the league in runs (107) and walks (79). All rise!

MLB News: Aaron Judge and leading candidates for AL MVP 

MLB News: Aaron Judge and leading candidates for AL MVP  - Bolavip US

Asian players continue to make their way in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/Top-10-MLB-home-runs-leaders-in-2022-20220419-0003.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Major League Baseball.</a> It seems like there’s a new elite prospect ready to take the U.S. by storm every year, like this season with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-rumors-best-fits-for-seiya-suzuki-20211214-0006.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Seiya Suzuki</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-rumors-willson-contreras-and-other-cubs-stars-likely-to-be-traded-20220708-0014.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chicago Cubs.</a>
Japanese baseball seems like a never-ending source of talent, and everybody’s looking to land the next Shohei Ohtani. While that may be a lot to ask and most likely an impossible task, there’s no shortage of options overseas.
<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-trade-rumors-potential-destinations-for-shohei-ohtani-20220729-0012.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ohtani continues</a> to make history every time he sets foot on the plate or steps on the mound. That’s why today, we’re going to talk about him and the three Japanese players with the most career home runs in MLB.
<h2>MLB Records: Japanese Players With The Most Career Home Runs</h2>
<h3>3. Ichiro Suzuki – 117 HR</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20220810_BUS_197445_ichiro_suzuki.jpg_22993414_7ce98f0d.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Ichiro Suzuki – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Ichiro Suzuki had a legendary career. He amassed 3,089 hits over nearly two decades in MLB, becoming one of the most prolific hitters and base-runners to ever live. However, he ‘just’ hit 117 dingers in9,934 career at-bats, an average of 6.1 per season.
Suzuki put together one of the greatest résumés for a foreign player, including a .311 batting average and a whopping509 stolen bases. He also owns an MLB record with 262 hits in a single season.
<h3>2. Shohei Ohtani – 118 HR</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20220810_BUS_197445_shohei_ohtani_x1x.jpg_22993414_9e234bf4.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Shohei Ohtani – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Shohei Ohtani might as well be the most spectacular player in baseball history. A modern-day Babe Ruth, Ohtani continues to rakebaseballs while also striking out 10+ every time he sets foot on the mound.
To put it in context, Ohtani’s 118th home run in Major League Baseball came in his1,799th at-bat. He had 46 home runs last season alone and is well on pace to be the all-time leader in this regard once it’s all said and done.
<h3>1. Hideki Matsui – 175</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20220810_BUS_197445_hideki_matsui.jpg_22993414_07e328bf.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Hideki Matsui- Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Long before Ohtani set the bar for what teams wanted their Asian stars to look like, people compared Asian hitters with Hideki Matsui. Even though his MLB career only lasted nine years, he still managed to make a huge impact in the U.S.
‘Godzilla’ was a feared slugger during his prime with the New York Yankees. He left MLB with a .282 batting average and 175 career home runs in4,442 plate appearances. If that wasn’t enough, he uplifted his team in the 2009 World Series to clinch MVP honors.

MLB: Shohei Ohtani and the Japenese players with the most career home runs

MLB: Shohei Ohtani and the Japenese players with the most career home runs - Bolavip US

What seemed impossible months ago could now become a reality. Some around <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-rumors-xander-bogaerts-and-red-sox-stars-that-could-get-traded-20220722-0012.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MLB</a> believe that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/los-angeles-angels-shohei-ohtani-speaks-out-after-joe-maddon-fired-20220608-0019.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Los Angeles Angels</a> could give up and trade <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/former-mlb-star-explains-why-shohei-ohtani-is-better-than-babe-ruth-20210823-0021.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shohei Ohtani</a> before he walks away as a free agent.
Ohtani is reportedly frustrated after another losing season in Anaheim and would favor joining a legit World Series contender. Needless to say, the most unique player in baseball could fetch a historical deal in free agency.
So, there’s a real chance the Angels decide to<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-rumors-juan-soto-and-other-dodgers-trade-deadline-candidates-20220728-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> move him right now</a>. What teams could have enough assets to pull off a deal and then sign him to his true market value if that’s the case? Let’s break it down.
<h2>MLB Rumors: 3 Teams That Could Trade For Shohei Ohtani</h2>
<h3>3. New York Yankees</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20220729_BUS_196544_shohei_ohtani_x3x.jpg_22993414_0ce0e51b.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Brian Cashman swings big – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Hal Steinbrenner hasn’t taken the same approach as his father. But the New York Yankees have historically seduced all top-tier players, and it would only be fitting that they work their magic with Ohtani, regardless of how much it costs them.
Ohtani is a generational talent. He could fill two of the Yankees’ glaring holes: a top-notch arm for their rotationand another elite slugger. They have prospects like Anthony Volpe and Jasson Dominguez, and Shohei is just 28 years old. The Evil Empire must strike back.
<h3>2. Los Angeles Dodgers</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20220729_BUS_196544_shohei_ohtani_x2x.jpg_22993414_fa5c6f3e.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Ohtani stays in California – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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The Los Angeles Dodgers are the new Yankees. They won’t hesitate to spend big or swing for the fences to land every star available. Money isn’t an issue, and they have an elite farm system full of top-notch prospects to facilitate any transaction.
While the Dodgers are all set atfirst baseman, they could use a full-time DH or even move Ohtani to the outfield. Also, their pitching staff has been decimated by injuries, so he’s also a solid fit there. . So they definitely don’t need him, but when has that stopped them?
<h3>1. New York Mets</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20220729_BUS_196544_shohei_ohtani_x1x.jpg_22993414_f01a8957.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Reunited with Billy Eppler – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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The New York Mets have made some significant transactions as of late. New owner Steve Cohen vowed to make them a perennial World Series contender, and he’s got more than enough cash to spare and sign Ohtani to the massive deal he’s worthy of.
But more importantly, Mets GM Billy Eppler was the one who signed Ohtani. He built a strong rapport with him and his agents, methim in Japan, and convinced him to join the Halos. That can’t be overlooked as Ohtani looks to sign his new contract.

MLB Trade Rumors: Potential destinations for Shohei Ohtani

MLB Trade Rumors: Potential destinations for Shohei Ohtani - Bolavip US

Each season, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-all-star-game-2022-clayton-kershaw-on-being-named-starting-pitcher-20220718-0023.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Major League Baseball</a> runs its <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-home-run-derby-2022-prize-how-much-money-do-the-winner-get-20220718-0004.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MLB All-Star Game</a> to show all the best players that they have in each team. It does not matter if the club is not living its best moment, as the main characters are the ones that play. Shohei Otani is, undoubtedly, one of the most dominant pitchers nowadays, but he does not plan to do it during this event.
Before the All-Star Game, the MLB has its <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/albert-pujols-ronald-acuna-jr-and-all-the-2022-mlb-home-run-derby-participants-20220718-0009.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Home Run Derby</a> to see who has the best pair of arms in the league. Obviously,<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/why-is-aaron-judge-not-participating-in-the-2022-home-run-derby-20220718-0003.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Aaron Judge</a> was the most attractive player for this competition, but the New York Yankees fielder did not participate in order to be healthy for the season and do not miss one single game in this incredible year he is having.
For the game that faces the best players in the league against each other, there are some huge names such as Clayton Kershaw, Aaron Judge, Mike Trout, Manny Machado, Shohei Otani, amongst others. This last one, will be under the spotlight as the Los Angeles Angels’ pitcher will not be on the top of the mound for the duel.
<h2>Why is Shohei Otani not pitching in the 2022 MLB All-Star Game?</h2>
Shohei Otani was selected to be one of the pitchers for the American League, but he revealed this Monday that he will not throw the ball at the Midsummer Classic and he will only be available as hitter.
“I’m pitching the first game out of the All-Star break, so I’d only have two days in between”, Ohtani said through interpreter Ippei Mizuhara for the press. “I obviously prioritize the season over the All-Star Game.”

Why is Shohei Otani not pitching in the 2022 MLB All-Star Game?

Why is Shohei Otani not pitching in the 2022 MLB All-Star Game? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/why-mlb-umpires-check-pitchers-hands-after-the-inning-is-over-20220418-0005.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2022 Major League Baseball</a> season is<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/how-to-watch-and-live-stream-the-2022-mlb-games-in-the-united-states-20220416-0009.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> offering a high level </a>as in previous seasons, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-lockout-five-major-events-that-could-be-impacted-20211202-0009.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">despite what was the lockout</a>, the coronavirus, and other things that were put against baseball, after all, nothing stopped the beginning of the new season.
The home run leaders are fighting like never before, everyone seems to want to be in the top 10 as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-2022-top-10-pitchers-for-the-upcoming-regular-season-20220402-0022.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most players</a> started their home run dominance in good shape this season, plus it is expected that at least 2-3 of those who were home run leaders last 2021 season return to the top 10 again this year.
<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-2022-top-5-projected-rotations-for-the-upcoming-regular-season-20220402-0023.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shohei Ohtani</a> is one of the big favorites among the home run leaders in the 2022 season, he has all the odds in his favor but in 2021, Ohtani was the 3rd best with 46 home runs, while the two best from last season were Vladimir Guerrero Jr and Salvador Perez with 48 home runs each.
<h2>Top 10 MLB home runs leaders in 2022</h2>
The list is updated once a day after <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/how-to-watch-and-live-stream-the-2022-mlb-games-in-the-united-states-20220416-0009.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most games</a> are over and the stats are distributed to the media. The 2020 MLB season was the year with the fewest home runs in the last 10 years as the average is over 40+ home runs among the leaders.
In 2001 it was the last time that an MLB player reached more than <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/why-mlb-umpires-check-pitchers-hands-after-the-inning-is-over-20220418-0005.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">60+ home runs</a>, on that occasion the leader was Barry Bonds with a total of 73 home runs in the season. The other player who came close to 60 home runs was Giancarlo Staton in 2017 with 59 home runs.
<table border="0">
<caption> Top 10 HR Leaders in 2022 </caption>
<thead>
<tr>
<td>1.</td>
<td>Aaron Judge</td>
<td>62</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2.</td>
<td>Kyle Schwarber</td>
<td>46</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3.</td>
<td>Mike Trout</td>
<td>40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>Pete Alonso</td>
<td>40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5.</td>
<td>Austin Riley</td>
<td>38</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6.</td>
<td>Yordan Alvarez</td>
<td>37</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7.</td>
<td>Christian Walker</td>
<td>36</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8.</td>
<td>Mookie Betts</td>
<td>35</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>Rowdy Tellez</td>
<td>35</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>Paul Goldschmidt</td>
<td>35</td>
</tr>
</thead>
</table>
(10-06-2022 updated, 11:14AM(ET))
Note*: Numberless players meansthey are tie in the same spot.
data by sports-reference.com
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Top 10 MLB home runs leaders in 2022 [updated]

Top 10 MLB home runs leaders in 2022 [updated] - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-is-back-when-is-2022-opening-day-start-date-updated-after-labor-deal-20220310-0025.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Major League Baseball</a> starts on April 7, 2022, but beyond the first game the most important thing is that the teams have their lineups ready, especially their rotations to defend the mound. A lot is expected of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-playoff-format-2022-how-will-the-baseball-postseason-be-played-20220311-0024.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">big pitchers this season</a>, but pitchers don’t win games on their own.
Veterans like Verlander is one of the big pitching names for the upcoming season, but other young pitchers also hope to debut in the regular season. Most rotations in the MLB will be led by well-known pitchers like deGrom, Buehler and Julio Urias.
The list of the top 10 pitchers comes from a recent list of the 100 best baseball players for the 2022 MLB season, that list was published on April 1 by Manny Randhawa, the list includes not only pitchers but all types of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-playoff-format-2022-how-will-the-baseball-postseason-be-played-20220311-0024.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">baseball players</a>.
<h2>Top 10 pitchers for the upcoming 2022 MLB regular season</h2>
1. Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Angels): Apart from being a good pitcher, Ohtani is good at bat, he is a designated pitcher and hitter and in the four seasons with the Angels he has shown his high value for the team.
2. Jacob deGrom (New York Mets): The Mets have a tough guy in their rotation, but sadly deGrom will miss the first month of the regular season due to a scapula injury.
3. Max Scherzer (New York Mets): Another Mets big name, Scherzer will play this year with the Mets but there are still questions about Scherzer’s health for the start of the regular season, he is not in the rotation projections.
4. Walker Buehler (Los Angeles Rodgers): This pitcher is number one in the Dodgers rotation, they have a strong lineup and mostly left handed pitchers to defend the mound, and this is Buehler’s first year as a Ace.
5. Corbin Burnes (Milwaukee Brewers): <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-delay-opening-day-2022-and-cancels-first-two-series-of-the-season-funniest-memes-and-reactions-20220301-0035.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Last season</a> was the best yet for Burnes at 11-5 with a 2.43 ERA. Burnes is in the Brewers’ projected rotation for the upcoming 2022 MLB season.
6. Zack Wheeler (Philadelphia Phillies): The Phillies’ hope for the 2022 MLB season is Wheeler since he finished last season with good numbers of 14-10 and 2.78 ERA.
7. Shane Bieber (Cleveland Guardians): Four seasons with the Guardians and his two best seasons were in 2019 at 15-8 and 2020 at 8-1 overall. In 2021 Bieber only started 16 games, far fewer compared to his first two years in Cleveland.
8. Brandon Woodruff (Milwaukee Brewers): Last season was relatively good for Woodruff with 30 starts and 9-10 overall for a 2.56 ERA. For the 2022 MLB season, the Brewers are confident that Woodruff will be a fundamental part of their rotation.
9. Robbie Ray (Seattle Mariners): The Mariners jumped at the chance to sign Robbie Ray after his good year with the Blue Jays and going 13-7 overall for a 2.84 ERA. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/mlb-playoff-format-2022-how-will-the-baseball-postseason-be-played-20220311-0024.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Mariners’ rotation</a> includes Ray as a key player.
10. Max Fried (Atlanta Braves): Charlie Morton is no longer the top pitcher for the Braves, now Fried is the Ace of the franchise. Last season, 2021, was a good one for Fried with a 14-7 overall and a 3.04 ERA.

MLB 2022: Top 10 pitchers for the upcoming regular season

MLB 2022: Top 10 pitchers for the upcoming regular season - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shohei-ohtani" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shohei Ohtani</a> of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-angels" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Los Angeles Angels</a> has been way above any other superstar in the season so far. He is definitely running the show in the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mlb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MLB</a> as he keeps on <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/shohei-ohtani-is-the-best-player-in-the-world-and-its-not-even-close-20210819-0002.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">breaking records</a> and cementing his superstar status.
Baseball enthusiasts agree that we are running out of words to describe him anymore, as he is doing things that didn’t seem possible up to now. That’s why some people are already comparing him to the biggest names of the game.
Former MLB star David Justice has gonefurther by claiming that Ohtani is even better than <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/yankees-vs-red-sox-15-stars-who-played-for-both-teams-20200806-0002.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Babe Ruth</a>, considered the ultimate reference when it comes to talkingabout legendary players.
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<h2>David Justice explains why he thinks Ohtani is better than Babe Ruth</h2>
Talking to TMZ Sports, the ex-<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-braves" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Atlanta Braves</a> outfielder has showered praise on who’s the leading superstar in the league right now, even explaining why he considers he is better than The Bambino. Justice first described Ohtani as “special.” Then he added:“To be able to throw and pitchat the big league level, and then hit the way he hits…”
When asked about the comparisons with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/the-top-7-mlb-home-run-kings-20210218-0006.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Babe Ruth</a>, he claimed Ohtani was better without any doubt. “Babe Ruth played against farmers. They pitched the whole game back then. You see the gloves they played with? (…) By the way,(Ruth)only played against one race.You didn’t play against none of the Negro League players. You didn’t play against none of the Asian players. You didn’t play none of the Latin players. So, you only played against this population of players,”he stated.
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However, Justice didn’t want anybodyto get him wrong, he’s got nothing against Ruth and he actually recognizes what Ruth has accomplished: “You gotta give Babe credit because he was dominating who he was playing against.
“Idon’t want it to sound like I’m hating onBabe, it’s just that I’m giving extra love to Ohtani,” he explained. Additionally, Justice considers Ohtani can ‘absolutely’ win both Cy Young awardand American League MVP this season. “It’s possible even if he don’t do it this year, it is possible any year. Because that’s the type of talent that he has. He’s special. He’s a rarity, I love watching that guy play,” he added.
If Ohtani wasn’t already making enough fans on all those who watched him this year, now he has even received the ultimate praise from a former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/mlb/2021-mlb-season-schedule-predictions-odds-dates-tv-and-live-stream-20210331-0005.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Major League Baseball</a> star.

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Former MLB star explains why Shohei Ohtani is better than Babe Ruth

Former MLB star explains why Shohei Ohtani is better than Babe Ruth - Bolavip US

There isn’t much we could say about Shohei Ohtani that hasn’t been said already. The Los <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-angels" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Angeles Angels</a> superstar isn’t only the best player in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mlb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Major League Baseball </a>but perhaps the biggest show <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sports" target="_blank" rel="noopener">in allsports</a> right now.
Ohtani continued his incredible season by topping career bests in both home runs (40) and innings pitched (8) last night, striking out 8 without any free rides and surrendering just 1 earned run.
The Angels beat the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/detroit-tigers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Detroit Tigers</a> 3-1 and Ohtani stole all the headlines on a night everybody was waiting for Miguel Cabrera’s 500th dinger. Sadly for the future Hall of Famer, Ohtani was simply dominant.

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Half of Shohei Ohtani’s 40 HR have been hit 110+ MPH.
 He also tossed 8 innings in the game.
 (MLBStats x <a href="https://twitter.com/googlecloud?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GoogleCloud</a>) <a href="https://t.co/rQolCKIvo2">pic.twitter.com/rQolCKIvo2</a>
 — MLB Stats (@MLBStats) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBStats/status/1428180399079952388?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2021</a> </blockquote></div>
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<h2>Joe Maddon Praises Shohei Ohtani After 8 IP Performance</h2>
That’s why Angels’ coach Joe Maddon showered Ohtani in praise after the game. Maddon, just like most of us, is running out of words to describe just how much of an incredible season he’s having:
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Shohei Ohtani ALSO struck out 8 and lowered his ERA to 2.79. �� <a href="https://t.co/b7hbMhwnNb">pic.twitter.com/b7hbMhwnNb</a>
 — MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1428169227702136836?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2021</a> </blockquote></div>
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“What can you possibly say that hasn’t already been said?” Maddon said. “He wasn’t looking for the punchout early, and later in the game his stuff kept building. I would’ve sent him out for the ninth, but he was fatigued. But it worked out well, obviously. He gave up a homer on a hanging slider, but I think in the worst way, he wanted to get that run back, and he did with a prodigious blast to right field. The superlatives, I mean just give this man credit. He’s a unique athlete, and he’s special to watch.“
Ohtani is currently leading the race to win the American League MVP. But more than that, Maddon believes that he should also be in the Cy Young conversation after going 8-1 with a 2.79 ERA and 120 strikeouts in 100 innings of work:
“Making a case? Absolutely,” Maddon said. “He’s in the middle of everything. Every award that’s going to be given out, he’s in the middle of it.”
<h2>Ohtani Says He Always Wants To Go The Distance</h2>
Ohtani just needed 90 pitches to navigate through 8 innings. And even though most of us expected him to get the complete game, the Angels played it safe with their superstar and brought in Raisel Iglesias to get the save:

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Shohei Ohtani talks with the media about his dominant 2-way performance <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeBelieve?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeBelieve</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Angels?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Angels</a> <a href="https://t.co/uuMoZjK10O">pic.twitter.com/uuMoZjK10O</a>
 — Bally Sports West (@BallySportWest) <a href="https://twitter.com/BallySportWest/status/1428177872301199361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2021</a> </blockquote></div>
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“I’m never satisfied unless I go the distance,” Ohtani said through his interpreter. “But I was letting it eat from the sixth inning on, so I got a little tired. And we have a great closer in Iglesias.”
“At that point, I wasn’t sure if I was going to go back out or not,” Ohtani said of his league-leading 40th home run in the 8th inning. “So I wanted to get that insurance run. It was huge for me and the team.”
Ohtani is doing things we never thought a player would be able to do. We talk a lot about Babe Ruth and for very good reasons, but what this man is doing is unprecedented, and he’s just getting started.

Shohei Ohtani is the best player in the world and it’s not even close

Shohei Ohtani is the best player in the world and it's not even close - Bolavip US

Shohei Ohtani is the best player in the world and it's not even close

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