Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani tops MVP mock vote as Kyle Tucker's contract draws criticism

Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers led an MLB MVP mock poll released by the league’s official site, receiving 30 of 33 votes and 161 points, far ahead of the second‑place candidates. At the mid‑season mark, Ohtani is posting a .412 on‑base percentage, a .950 OPS (third in the majors), and a 1.58 ERA with an 8‑2 record in his starts.

Meanwhile, Dodgers outfielder Kyle Tucker has struggled to meet the expectations of his four‑year, $240 million contract. As of June 27, Tucker was hitting .238 with seven home runs, 44 RBIs and a .719 OPS (OPS+ 101). The team’s manager, Dave Roberts, noted a recent back injury and said the time off could serve as a physical and mental reset, but the high‑value deal has prompted media speculation that the Dodgers may regret the signing.