Houston Astros' Yordan Alvarez named 2026 AL MVP award
HOUSTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 30: Yordan Alvarez #44 of the Houston Astros smiles during the fourth inning of game two of the American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox at Daikin Park on September 30, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo b
HOUSTON - Houston Astros designated hitter and left fielder Yordan Alvarez was crowned the 2026 American League Most Valuable Player for the first time in his career!
At 29, Alvarez is the third player in franchise history to be honored with the MVP award, following the likes of Jose Altuve, who was named in 2017, and Jeff Bagwell, who was honored in 1994.
The announcement came Thursday night on MLB Network with Alvarez beating out Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Junior Caminero and Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr.
Alvarez etches name in baseball history
Alvarez had one of the most dominant offensive seasons in baseball this year, taking home both the American League and Major League batting titles. He was also the only player in the majors to finish the season with an OPS over 1.000.
The MVP award isn't the only title Alvarez took home. He also received the AL Hank Aaron Award, the AL Comeback Player of the Year, and the Edgar Martinez Outstanding Designated Hitter Award. He was also named an All-MLB First Team selection.
By the numbers:
Alvarez led the American League in multiple categories during the 2026 season, playing in 158 games:
- Batting Average: .316 (179-for-567)
- On-Base Percentage: .432
- Slugging Percentage: .601
- OPS: 1.033
- Extra-Base Hits: 77 (34 doubles, one triple, 42 home runs)
- Total Bases: 341
- Walks: 109
- Intentional Walks: 33 (an Astros franchise record)
The Source: Information in this article was provided by the MLB, Yordan Alvarez's player profile on Astros website, and official press release from the Houston Astros.