For the past few seasons, the Most Valuable Oriole (MVO) award has been a window into the Orioles' journey. Back in 2022, Adley Rutschman, a rookie sensation, snagged the honor, sparking a late-season surge that saw the O's finish strong. The following year, Gunnar Henderson, another rookie, claimed both the Rookie of the Year and MVO titles as the Orioles clinched the AL East crown.
Henderson repeated his MVO success in 2024, delivering one of the best seasons in franchise history, second only to the legendary Cal Ripken Jr. However, Trevor Rogers stole the spotlight last year, overcoming an early setback to deliver a standout 18-start stretch that etched his name into Orioles lore.
As the Orioles set their sights on a playoff return in 2026, the entire roster must step up. After underwhelming performances from key players in 2025, the stars need to shine brightly to turn the tide. With that in mind, let's dive into the odds of who might join the ranks of MVO winners this season.
The Favorite: Pete Alonso
Beers Sportsbook Betting Odds: -150
Gunnar Henderson has long been the Orioles' standout player, but after a dip in form last year, he's now ranked No. 26 on MLB.com's Top 100 list. Hot on his heels is Pete Alonso, a major offseason acquisition, sitting at No. 33.
The MVO race is as much about narrative as it is about numbers. If the Orioles are to reach their potential in 2026, their offense must lead the charge.
Injuries have hit Jordan Westburg and Jackson Holliday, but projections had the O's lineup as a top contender in the AL. Last season, the Orioles struggled offensively, but Alonso is poised to change that, aiming to replicate the team’s 2024 top-five finish in runs and homers.
Alonso, a five-time All-Star with a penchant for 40+ homers, is expected to be a catalyst for the Orioles' offensive resurgence. While Henderson, Rutschman, Taylor Ward, and Samuel Basallo are all crucial, Alonso's leadership and power could make him the centerpiece of an offensive renaissance.
The Leading Competition: Trevor Rogers or Kyle Bradish
Beers Sportsbook Betting Odds: +150
The Orioles' rotation boasts talent but also uncertainty. With Shane Baz, Chris Bassitt, and Zach Eflin bolstering the ranks, the rotation remains untested at the top. Enter Rogers and Bradish, who have the potential to anchor the staff.
Rogers' breakout last year was unexpected, transforming from a rotation afterthought into a dominant force. His performance evoked memories of Orioles greats like Jim Palmer and Mike Mussina. Rogers became the first pitcher since 1997 to win MVO, and the first starter since 1974.
Both Rogers and Bradish carry high expectations into this season. Rogers, taking the Opening Day nod, aims to build on his top-ten Cy Young finish, while Bradish looks to solidify his role following a stellar 2023 and a strong finish last year. If either can seize the ace mantle, they could outshine Alonso and the offense in the MVO race.
Gunnar Henderson
Beers Sportsbook Betting Odds: +200
Henderson's MVP-caliber 2024 saw him post a 9.1 bWAR with impressive stats across the board. Returning to the leadoff spot under new manager Craig Albernaz, Henderson could be poised for another standout season.
The shift back to the top of the order could reignite Henderson's all-around game, making him a formidable MVO contender. With a chip on his shoulder from his World Baseball Classic experience, Henderson is primed to make a statement.
The Dark Horse: Coby Mayo
Beers Sportsbook Betting Odds: +1000
Coby Mayo's situation is fluid as Opening Day approaches. Questions linger about his defensive readiness and lineup spot once the team is at full strength. Yet, Mayo’s bat is making noise.
With a standout spring training and a strong finish last September, Mayo is showing signs of fulfilling his offensive potential. If he can break out like Henderson did in his second full season, Mayo might just surprise everyone with a Cedric Mullins-esque run to MVO glory.