The 2025 World Series is set to kick off this Friday, featuring a highly anticipated matchup between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays. As excitement builds around the event, one of the more intriguing betting angles gaining traction among fans and gamblers alike is the race for the World Series Most Valuable Player (MVP). Predicting the MVP in a short series often feels like a roll of the dice, given the unpredictable nature of baseball’s postseason. Yet, this uncertainty is exactly what makes the wager so enticing.
Over the years, the World Series MVP award has been claimed by a diverse array of players, ranging from household superstars to lesser-known contributors. Legendary figures such as Freddie Freeman, Corey Seager, Stephen Strasburg, David Ortiz, Derek Jeter, and Mariano Rivera have all secured the honor, showcasing the caliber of talent that can shine brightest on baseball’s grandest stage. However, the award isn’t exclusively reserved for marquee names. Players like Jeremy Peña, Jorge Soler, Ben Zobrist, and David Freese have also risen to the occasion, delivering clutch performances that earned them MVP recognition despite not being the biggest stars on their teams.
The unpredictability extends even further when role players step into the spotlight. For example, Steve Pearce took home the MVP in the 2018 World Series, and going back to the Blue Jays’ championship run in 1992, catcher Pat Borders famously earned the accolade. This wide range of potential candidates makes the World Series MVP one of the most fascinating props to consider before the series begins.
With that context in mind, let’s explore some of the most compelling MVP candidates ahead of this year’s showdown, along with their current odds as listed by DraftKings.
**Shohei Ohtani, Dodgers (+180)** At odds of +180, Shohei Ohtani represents tremendous value, especially for a favorite. As a dual-threat pitcher and hitter, Ohtani’s unique skill set makes him arguably the most likely candidate to emerge as the series MVP if the Dodgers prevail. His ability to dominate both on the mound and at the plate gives him a distinct advantage in a short series where a few outstanding performances can define the outcome.
**Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Blue Jays (+600)** Coming off an outstanding ALCS MVP performance, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. stands out as the Blue Jays’ most obvious MVP candidate. His postseason numbers are nothing short of spectacular — a .442 batting average combined with a .510 on-base percentage and a .930 slugging percentage, including six home runs and 12 RBIs in 11 games. If Toronto wins the World Series, Guerrero’s continued offensive explosion would make him a natural choice for MVP honors.
**Freddie Freeman, Dodgers (+900)** Freddie Freeman proved his World Series mettle last year, and many will be watching to see if he can deliver an encore performance. With a potent bat and steady leadership, Freeman remains a strong candidate to shine in the postseason spotlight again.
**George Springer, Blue Jays (+1000)** George Springer’s postseason pedigree is well established. He ranks among the all-time leaders in World Series home runs, and his knack for clutch hitting in high-pressure moments is legendary. If he finds his rhythm in this series, Springer could easily be the player to lead Toronto to victory and claim the MVP award.
**Teoscar Hernández, Dodgers (+1800)** Often overshadowed by the Dodgers’ superstars, Teoscar Hernández occupies a prime spot in the lineup, typically hitting third behind Ohtani and Mookie Betts and ahead of Freddie Freeman. He has a strong postseason track record — nine home runs and 27 RBIs in just 30 career playoff games — making him a dangerous contender if he heats up during the World Series.
**Mookie Betts, Dodgers (+2000)** Betts has been a steady force for the Dodgers, particularly surging late in the regular season and maintaining solid production in the playoffs. Given his talent and track record, a dominant World Series showing from Betts would not come as a surprise.
**Will Smith, Dodgers (+3000)** The Dodgers’ All-Star catcher, Will Smith, has battled injuries during the playoffs but has shown flashes of his offensive prowess when healthy. He’s been productive recently, going 6-for-15 with two walks over the last four games. If Smith can stay healthy and contribute significantly, he could make a