Washington Nationals outfielder Bryce Harper was unanimously voted the 2015 National League MVP. Harper becomes the first player in Montreal Expos/Nationals franchise history to win the award.
Overall, Harper, 23, is the fourth-youngest to win the award, behind Vida Blue (22 in 1971), Johnny Bench (22 in 1970), and Stan Musial (22 in 1943).
With 420 points, Harper easily finished ahead of Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (234 points) and Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto (175 points).
Zack Greinke received two second-place votes and appeared seventh on the ballot with 130 points. Just ahead of Greinke with 134 points was NL Cy Young Award winner and Chicago Cubs ace Jake Arrieta.
The Los Angeles Dodgers were further represented in the final vote by 2014 NL MVP Clayton Kershaw, whose highest place on all ballots was two fourth-place votes. He finished 10th with 49 points. Adrian Gonzalez received one ninth-place and one 10th-place vote to finish tied for 19th.
Harper led the Majors in on-base percentage (.460), slugging percentage (.649) and WAR (9.9). He also tied for the NL lead in home runs (42) and batting average (.330), and led the NL in runs scored (118).
In 153 games played, the 23 year old hit .330/.460/.649 with an MLB-best 197 wRC+, 195 OPS+ and .461 wOBA.
Last season was Harper’s first as a full-time right fielder. He ranked fourth among NL players at his position with seven defensive runs saved and was a Gold Glove finalist.
