2026 MLB Award Nominees Announced: Brewers, Cubs, and Tigers Stars Lead Finalist Lists Major League Baseball reveals the three finalists for MVP, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year awards. See who made the cut after the Milwaukee Brewers win the 2026 World Series. Major League Baseball officially announced the final nominees for its five premier awards on October 28, 2026, capping off a historic postseason for the Milwaukee Brewers. The announcement followed the Brewers' dramatic five-game World Series victory over the Tampa Bay Rays, a triumph that solidified Jacob Misiorowski as a central figure in the league's postseason narrative. Misiorowski delivered critical pitching performances during Game 5 at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, showcasing the resilience that defined the Brewers' championship run. The Milwaukee Brewers secured the franchise's first World Series title, marking a watershed moment in Major League Baseball history. Manager Pat Murphy, who guided the team to the best record in the majors, is the clear favorite for the National League Manager of the Year Award. This recognition would mark Murphy's third consecutive Manager of the Year honor, underscoring his sustained strategic excellence and ability to maximize his roster's potential throughout the grueling 2026 season.In the National League Most Valuable Player race, the competition is fierce among elite contenders. Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong emerged as a significant contender during the regular season, demonstrating exceptional speed and offensive potential. Crow-Armstrong recorded his 40th stolen base against the Miami Marlins at Wrigley Field on September 24, 2026, highlighting his aggressive baserunning and defensive impact. His statistical dominance places him firmly in the conversation for the top individual honor in the senior circuit.The American League MVP race features equally compelling candidates from powerhouse franchises. Detroit Tigers shortstop Kevin McGonigle made headlines with his defensive prowess and consistent offensive contributions. McGonigle, wearing number 7, attempted to throw out Chicago White Sox center fielder Brenton Doyle at first base during a game at Rate Field in Chicago on September 17, 2026. His ability to anchor the infield while contributing to the team's overall success has made him a standout among American League position players.Cy Young Award voters are weighing the performances of elite starting pitchers who defined the 2026 season. New York Yankees starting pitcher Cam Schlittler, wearing number 31, faced the Boston Red Sox in Game 1 of the Wild Card round at Yankee Stadium on September 29, 2026. Schlittler's ability to handle high-leverage situations against division rivals exemplified the high stakes of the early postseason rounds. His statistical output and clutch pitching have positioned him as a top contender for the prestigious pitching award in the American League.The Rookie of the Year race remains wide open with intense competition across both leagues. In the National League, the final three nominees include standout first-year players who impressed during their debuts. One notable finalist for the National League Rookie of the Year Award is a player who emerged as a standout candidate throughout the campaign. The race could come down to the wire, but the depth of talent among the rookies highlights the exciting future for both leagues.In the American League, the Rookie of the Year finalists include Detroit Tigers shortstop Kevin McGonigle, whose combination of power and defense has drawn widespread acclaim. McGonigle's aggressive style of play and ability to make game-changing plays at shortstop have made him a favorite among analysts and fans alike. His performance against various opponents, including the White Sox and Red Sox, demonstrates the high level of play expected from top rookie talents.The American League Reliever of the Year award heavily favors San Diego Padres pitcher Mason Miller. Miller, aged 22 and wearing number 22, posted an impressive 1.67 Earned Run Average and secured 38 saves during the regular season. His dominance was evident during the playoff wildcard round, where he celebrated a victory against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Petco Park in San Diego on September 26, 2026. His statistical superiority positions him as the likely winner of the honor.Miller's candidacy is strengthened by his ability to close out games with authority, a skill that proved vital for the Padres' postseason push. The San Diego Padres benefited significantly from Miller's reliability on the mound, allowing the team to maintain leads in tight contests. His performance against elite hitters and his consistency in high-pressure situations have set him apart from other relief pitchers in the league.The National League Reliever of the Year race features a different set of contenders, including Boston Red Sox righty Jhoan Duran. Duran recorded a significant number of saves this season, establishing himself as one of the most reliable closers in baseball. His ability to retire batters in critical moments has been instrumental in the Red Sox's success, making him a strong contender for the award.Walt Weiss of the Colorado Rockies remains a serious candidate for the American League Manager of the Year Award. Weiss led the Rockies to a surprising and competitive season, defying expectations and maximizing the potential of his roster. His strategic acumen and ability to motivate players in a challenging environment have earned him respect from peers and critics alike, keeping the AL Manager of the Year race highly competitive.The American League Manager of the Year race features three managers with strong cases for the honor. All three managers navigated their teams through a difficult regular season and produced impressive playoff performances. The final decision will likely come down to subtle differences in team performance, injury management, and late-season momentum, making it one of the most closely watched awards decisions of the year.As the 2026 MLB season concludes, the focus shifts to the formal selection process for these prestigious awards. The finalists represent a cross-section of the league's best talent, from rookie sensations to veteran leaders. The Brewers' historic championship victory serves as the backdrop for these announcements, cementing the 2026 season as a memorable chapter in Major League Baseball history.Stakeholders across the baseball world, including players, managers, and media members, will now await the final decisions. The clarity provided by the finalist lists allows for a focused discussion on the merits of each candidate. Whether it is Mason Miller's dominance on the mound or Pat Murphy's strategic guidance in the dugout, the 2026 awards will honor the specific achievements that defined this extraordinary year in professional baseball.