Pete Crow-Armstrong MVP Chances Questioned After Shohei Ohtani Update

Shohei Ohtani’s potential return to the mound has added another major twist to the 2026 National League MVP race, with fans debating whether Chicago Cubs star Pete Crow-Armstrong can still beat the Dodgers superstar for the award.

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed that Ohtani could potentially pitch in an MLB game as soon as next week. The two-way superstar has been sidelined for more than a month because of a lingering knee issue.

Shohei Ohtani’s Possible Return Changes MVP Conversation

Ohtani is scheduled to throw another bullpen session in Atlanta next week. The Dodgers will then determine whether he is ready to progress to live batting practice or potentially return to game action.

Before his latest absence, Ohtani had posted impressive pitching numbers, recording a 1.79 ERA, 95 strikeouts and eight wins across 85.2 innings.

His potential return to pitching has immediately generated discussion around the NL MVP race because Ohtani can contribute both as a hitter and a pitcher.

Fans React to Pete Crow-Armstrong’s MVP Chances

Ohtani’s potential return has prompted some fans to question whether Crow-Armstrong can remain a serious contender for the award.

Several reactions on social media suggested that the Cubs star’s MVP chances could be getting weaker as Ohtani prepares to potentially return to the mound.

Some fans specifically pointed toward Crow-Armstrong’s offensive numbers while others argued that Ohtani’s ability to contribute in two areas makes his case particularly difficult to overlook.

John Smoltz Weighs In on the NL MVP Race

Atlanta Braves legend John Smoltz also discussed the competition between Ohtani and Crow-Armstrong.

Smoltz argued that Crow-Armstrong needs stronger offensive production if he is going to compete with Ohtani, while also emphasizing that Ohtani should not be penalized simply because he is an exceptional player.

The comments underline one of the biggest challenges facing Crow-Armstrong: Ohtani’s unique two-way value gives him an additional route to influence the MVP race.

Sammy Sosa Backs Pete Crow-Armstrong

Despite the growing support for Ohtani, Chicago Cubs legend Sammy Sosa believes the 2026 NL MVP award should go to Crow-Armstrong.

Sosa praised Ohtani as one of baseball’s greatest players but argued that Crow-Armstrong deserves recognition for his impact on the Cubs throughout the season.

Crow-Armstrong has put together a strong campaign, recording 31 home runs, 31 stolen bases and a .279 batting average across 128 games.

How Pete Crow-Armstrong and Shohei Ohtani Compare

Ohtani has also produced impressive offensive numbers, batting .291 with 30 home runs and seven stolen bases across 118 games. His potential return as a pitcher could further strengthen his overall MVP case.

Ohtani’s pitching numbers could become the biggest differentiating factor if he returns successfully. His ability to contribute on the mound in addition to his offensive production gives voters another significant part of his overall case.

Ohtani Could Strengthen Dodgers Down the Stretch

A successful return to the mound would not only affect the MVP race but could also give the Dodgers another major weapon during the closing stages of the regular season.

With Ohtani potentially joining the pitching staff alongside the Dodgers’ other top arms, Los Angeles could become even more dangerous as the postseason approaches.

The 2026 NL MVP Race Remains Open

For now, Crow-Armstrong remains firmly in the conversation after his impressive season with the Cubs. Ohtani’s potential return to pitching, however, has added another layer to an already fascinating MVP battle.

Whether Ohtani can actually return to MLB pitching next week will depend on how he responds to his upcoming bullpen session and subsequent evaluation. If he does return successfully, his two-way contribution could become one of the defining factors of the 2026 NL MVP race.