The MVP of the losing side is also the MVP, and in the case of baseball, the MLB (Major League Baseball) individual awards are designed to recognize players for excellence in different fields, covering outstanding achievements in the regular season and playoffs.

Regular season core awards

Most Valuable Player (MVP)

Definition: Recognizes the most well-rounded players in the American League (AL) and National League (NL) seasons.

Selection Criteria: Offensive and defensive statistics and contribution to the team's victory.

History: Established in 1931 with the first laureate being Babe Ruth (1931).

Recent examples: Shohei Ohtani (2021, 2023 AL MVP), Ronald Acuña Jr. (2023 NL MVP).

Cy Young Award

Definition: Awarded to the best starting pitcher in each league.

Selection criteria: Pitcher's core data such as wins pitched, defense rate (ERA), strikeouts, etc.

History: Founded in 1956, it takes its name from legendary pitcher Cy Young.

Recent examples: Gerrit Cole (AL 2023), Blake Snell (NL 2023).

Rookie of the Year

Definition: Honoring the most outstanding rookie players in each league.

Selection Criteria: Offensive and defensive performance and potential in the first full season.

History: Established in 1947 with the first laureate being Jackie Robinson.

Recent examples: Gunner Henderson (AL 2023), Corbin Carroll (NL 2023).

Special Skills Awards

Silver Slugger

Definition: The player with the strongest offensive ability at each position (1 player per position in each league).

Selection criteria: batting average, home runs, points and other offensive data.

History: Established in 1980, 2023 AL winners include Shohei Ohtani (designated strike).

Gold Glove

Definition: The player who defends the best at each position (1 player per position in each league).

Selection criteria: Defensive Efficiency, Defensive Efficiency (DEF) and other data combined with coach voting.

History: Established in 1957, the 2023 NL winners include Fernando Tatis Jr. (right fielder).

Reliever of the Year

Definition: The best backup pitcher in each league, formerly known as the "Rolaids Relief Man Award".

Selection Criteria: Rescue Success, Self-Blame Rate (ERA) and Performance at Critical Moments.

Recent examples: Félix Bautista (AL 2023), Devin Williams (NL 2023)

Special Honors and Awards

Hank Aaron Award

Definition: The best offensive player in each league, in honor of home run legend Hank Allen.

Selection Criteria: Comprehensive strike data, voted on by fans and experts.

Recent examples: Shohei Ohtani (AL 2023), Ronald Acuña Jr. (NL 2023).

Comeback Player of the Year

Definition: Recognize players who have recovered from injuries or troughs and performed well.

Example: Liam Hendriks (AL 2023, Comeback Against Cancer)

Roberto Clemente Award

Definition: To recognise players who have demonstrated outstanding contributions and social responsibility on and off the pitch.

2023 winner: Aaron Judge (New York Yankees).

Playoff awards

World Series MVP: Awarded to the most critical player in the World Series (e.g. Corey Seager 2023).

Conference Championship Game MVP: The American League (ALCS) and the League of Nations (NLCS) each select one MVP.