Chicago Cubs poised to hoist plenty of hardware this season

Aug 27, 2015; San Francisco, CA, USA; Chicago Cubs infielder Anthony Rizzo (44) stands in the dugout before the start of the game against the San Francisco Giants at AT&T Park. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

NL MVP: Anthony Rizzo

This may be the biggest long-shot of the group that I’ve listed so far.

Anthony Rizzo isn’t having the best statistical season among the contenders for the award, but he’s close. Bryce Harper is the clear-cut front runner, but one thing may deny him the award.

The Washington Nationals are teetering very close to elimination in the National League East. Having already been counted out of Wild Card consideration, Harper could be an MVP on a team that will have no postseason.

I’ll argue that while putting up career numbers, Rizzo has been the undeniable leader of a young Cubs team on the brink of October baseball. If the Cubs do make a run, I would hope that many writers would recognize who truly have been the most valuable player to their team.

Cubs fans can only hope that all these awards will add up to the big hardware – a World Series trophy being raised inside the Friendly Confines. Our continued path on this rollercoaster will no doubt provide more excitement to a fan base that has deserved it for years.

Next: A look at potential center field options for next season