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Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. Poised to Upset Yankees' Aaron Judge for 2026 AL MVP
The young shortstop has the tools to dethrone the perennial MVP frontrunner
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees has dominated the American League in recent years, winning the MVP Award three times. However, 25-year-old Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals is poised to challenge Judge's reign in 2026. Witt is a rising star with impressive offensive and defensive skills, and with an improved supporting cast in Kansas City, he could put up the numbers to upset the Yankees slugger.
Why it matters
This potential MVP race highlights the generational shift happening in the American League, as a new wave of young superstars like Witt look to unseat established veterans like Judge. It also speaks to the Royals' efforts to build a contending team around their young core, which could culminate in the franchise's first MVP winner since George Brett.
The details
Witt Jr. is coming off back-to-back All-Star seasons, slashing .295/.351/.501 with 23 home runs, 88 RBIs, and 99 runs scored in 2025. His combination of power, contact hitting, and elite defense at shortstop make him a well-rounded threat. The Royals have also bolstered their lineup with sluggers like Vinnie Pasquantino and Sal Perez, which could take pressure off Witt and allow him to thrive. Additionally, the team has moved in their fences, potentially boosting Witt's power numbers.
- Witt Jr. is entering his fifth MLB season in 2026.
- The Royals made the playoffs in 2024 and had a winning record in 2025, indicating they are on the rise.
The players
Bobby Witt Jr.
A 25-year-old shortstop for the Kansas City Royals who has established himself as a sensational all-around player, combining brilliant offensive skills with elite defensive abilities.
Aaron Judge
A dominant 10-year veteran outfielder for the New York Yankees who has won the AL MVP Award three times and holds the record for most home runs (62) in a season by an American Leaguer.
Jose Ramirez
A 33-year-old third baseman for the Cleveland Guardians who has been an American League All-Star seven times and is one of the best clutch hitters in the sport.
What’s next
If Witt Jr. can lead the Royals to the playoffs, hit 35 home runs, drive in 110 runs, and win his third Gold Glove, he will have a strong case to upset Aaron Judge for the 2026 AL MVP Award.
The takeaway
The potential MVP race between Bobby Witt Jr. and Aaron Judge represents the changing of the guard in the American League, as a new generation of superstars like Witt look to dethrone the established veterans. Witt's well-rounded skill set and the Royals' improved supporting cast make him a legitimate threat to upset Judge and win the 2026 AL MVP Award.
