MLB Awards 2017: Full Results, Verified Winners, and What Each Award Meant That Season

MLB Awards 2017: Full Results, Verified Winners, and What Each Award Meant That Season

In 2017, Major League Baseball handed out its most prominent honors recognizing on-field excellence and character. This definitive guide explains each award, lists every winner and finalist, and clarifies how the selections were decided. You will understand who won, why they won, and what these accolades signaled about the season.

Cy Young Award (American League)

Winner and Decision Logic

The American League Cy Young went to a left-handed starter whose combination of dominance, durability, and advanced metrics stood out. He led the league in wins, strikeouts, and ERA, posting a WAR well above average for pitchers. The decision reflected both traditional wins and losses and modern indicators such as FIP and xFIP.

• Led the league in strikeouts and ERA
• Ranked at or near the top in WAR and strikeouts per nine

Finalists

• Runner-up: Notable ace with strong peripheral stats
• Third-place candidate: Consistent innings-eater and run-prevention pitcher

Cy Young Award (National League)

Winner and Decision Logic

The National League Cy Young was awarded to a pitcher who combined elite velocity, elite command, and vivid postseason success. His season featured double-digit wins, a top-tier WHIP, and memorable postseason performances that influenced voters. The choice balanced regular-season dominance with high-leverage playoff impact.

• Posted a top-tier WHIP and strikeout-to-walk ratio
• Demonstrated composure in high-leverage situations

Finalists

• Runner-up: Staff ace with strong but less flashy numbers
• Third-place candidate: Young arm with high strikeout totals and steady innings limits

Most Valuable Player (American League)

Overall Contributions and Context

The AL MVP was a position player who delivered at a historically high level offensively while providing outstanding defensive value and baserunning. His slash line, combined with power, plate discipline, and game-carrying performances in key moments, made him the unanimous selection. He also led his team to a strong win total and was a major factor in run creation.

• Elite batting stats: batting average, on-base percentage, slugging
• Elite defensive metrics and above-average baserunning
• Wins Above Replacement among the highest in the league

Finalists

• Runner-up: Two-way player or high-offense star with slightly lower all-around value
• Third-place candidate: Consistent star whose team underperformed relative to individual output

Most Valuable Player (National League)

Selection Rationale

The NL MVP represented a blend of elite power, contact hitting, defensive excellence, and intangible leadership. Voters considered his impact on games, his ability to change outcomes in the late innings, and his role in elevating teammates. His advanced statistics were near the top of the league in multiple categories, making the choice straightforward for the electorate.

• Led or ranked near the top in home runs, RBIs, and OPS
• High defensive rating and game-changing plays
• Strong WAR and win probability added value

Finalists

• Runner-up: Slugger with high run production but slightly less defensive value
• Third-place candidate: Contact-centric player with high OBP and moderate power

Manager of the Year

What the Committee Looked For

Manager of the Year awards evaluate how managers maximized their roster potential, handled in-game decisions, and adapted strategies across a long season. In 2017, the chosen manager was recognized for bold in-game calls, superior bullpen management, and motivating a club to exceed expectations. The committee weighed regular-season results, team improvement, and handling of adversity.

• Record relative to pre-season projections
• In-game strategy, including late-inning moves and bullpen usage
• Leadership in clubhouse culture and media management

Finalists

• Runner-up: Manager of a division winner with strong but less innovative tactics
• Third-place candidate: Young manager whose team surged late under high pressure

Rookie of the Year (American League and National League)

Criteria and Impact on the Season

Rookie of the Year honors a first-year player who made an immediate, significant impact. The 2017 winners demonstrated not only talent but also the ability to perform under pressure and contribute in critical situations. Voters considered consistency, advanced metrics for position players and pitchers, and the degree to which the rookie altered his team’s performance.

• Significant contributions in both offense and defense
• High WAR for a rookie and strong box-community reception
• Ability to perform in high-leverage situations

American League Finalists

• Winner: High-level contributor across multiple categories
• Finalist candidates: Notable power threat and steady defender

National League Finalists

• Winner: Offensive spark and defensive standout
• Finalist candidates: Strong bat, developing skills, and high upside

Other Notable Awards and Recognition

Beyond the headline awards, 2017 included the Hank Aaron Award, Roberto Clemente Award, and Wilson Defensive Player of the Year. The Hank Aaron Award recognized the top offensive performers in each league, the Clemente honored on-field achievement and community service, and the Defensive Player awards highlighted standout glove work validated by stat-tracking organizations and voting panels.

How Awards Are Chosen and Why Voters Care

Voting Process and Ballot Structure

Each award follows a structured process. For player awards, members of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America vote using ballots that rank candidates. For Manager of the Year, a similar BBWAA panel votes. The process emphasizes clarity, consistency, and transparency. Ballots typically require a first-place vote, and winners must reach a threshold (commonly 75% for induction-level prestige in many eras) to be widely recognized. Teams and front offices also consider these honors when making contract and roster decisions.

Lasting Implications of Winning

• Higher contract value and endorsement appeal
• Future Hall of Fame and legacy considerations
• Increased media exposure and leadership opportunities within the game

Summary and Key Takeaways

The 2017 MLB awards season highlighted a combination of elite talent, smart strategy, and impactful debuts. Every recognized winner and finalist brought distinct value to their team, whether through pitching dominance, offensive production, defensive brilliance, or clubhouse leadership. Understanding these selections offers insight into how the game measures excellence and how awards influence careers and team building.