2026 MLB playoffs: October MVP tracker

ESPN is tracking the 2026 MLB postseason MVP race using a cumulative win probability added (WPA) metric that weights later rounds more heavily — the division series counts double the wild-card round, the championship series doubles that again, and the World Series doubles it once more. Cleveland Guardians outfielder Chase DeLauter hit a home run to cut his team's deficit in a recent playoff game, earning mention in the tracker. The system allows players who perform well in early rounds to still appear on the leaderboard, but rewards those who deliver in high-stakes later rounds.