MLB All-Star Game 2016: 5 most likely MVP candidates

Jul 14, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; American League outfielder Mike Trout (27) of the Los Angeles Angels poses with the MVP trophy after the 2015 MLB All Star Game at Great American Ball Park. The American League all stars won 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

2 of 6

Jul 3, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) hits a solo home run against the Cincinnati Reds during the fifth inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Bryce Harper

Voted in as a starter in the outfield, Washington Nationals superstar Bryce Harper is sure to play an important role in the middle of the National League line-up. The 23-year-old Harper is one of the most talented and exciting players in the game and is sure to make a huge impact on the big stage.

The reigning NL MVP, Harper has been as completely dominant as we are used to in 2016. His .258/404/.491 triple slash line is strong, but it is not as other-worldly as we expect out of Harper.

He is still playing extremely well, but teams have learned to pitch around Harper and make the other hitters in the Nationals’ lineup beat them. This has caused a dip in Harpers’ numbers, but 17 homeruns and 48 RBI are still impressive.

Unlike when he is playing for the Nationals, American League pitchers will not be able to pitch around Harper as he will have elite protection from the other impact National League All-Star bats.

Harper has not been as great as we are used to, but he is a guy who shines brightest when the most attention is put on him. With a nation-wide audience watching and being surrounding by so many impact bats, I would not be surprised to see Harper put on a show and take home the MVP.

Next: 4. Manny Machado

Home/Baltimore Orioles