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World Series 2016: Six players who could be MVP

By Joshua Sadlock

Oct 22, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo celebrates after defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers in game six of the 2016 NLCS playoff baseball series at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo celebrates after defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers in game six of the 2016 NLCS playoff baseball series at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 18, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Corey Kluber (28) throws a pitch during the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays in game four of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 18, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Corey Kluber (28) throws a pitch during the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays in game four of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /

Corey Kluber

The World Series MVP has only been given out since 1955. In the 60 years that have passed since Johnny Podres won the first award, 21 more starting pitchers have won the award. Two more pitchers who started and relieved in the same series also won the award. Because starting pitchers have the potential to impact three games in a seven-game series, it’s not surprising that so many have won the award.

Kluber is the best bet on the Indians to become the 24th starting pitcher to win the World Series MVP. He is 2-1 so far this postseason, and turned in shutout performances in two of his three starts. Opposing batters are hitting just .191 against the 2014 AL Cy Young winner.

Kluber did not start against the Cubs this season, but the right-hander should match up well against them. With a heavy right-handed presence in the lineup, Kluber should be able to continue his string of dominant performances. He allowed only a .615 OPS to righties this year. In his past 17 starts, dating back to the All-Star break and including the postseason, Kluber is 11-2 with a 2.26 ERA. He is the most likely Cleveland pitcher to match the zeroes put up by the Cubs’ aces.

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