The Baseball Writers’ Association of America announced Tuesday that Kansas City Royals manager Matt Quatraro, right-handed pitcher Seth Lugo and infielder Bobby Witt Jr. are finalists for the American League Manager of the Year, Cy Young and MVP awards, respectively.
Quatraro: Manager of the Year Finalist
Quatraro led the Royals to an 86-76 record in his second season, a remarkable turnaround from the team’s 106 losses in 2023. The Royals became the third team to make the postseason following a 100-loss season, joining the 2020 Marlins and 2017 Twins.
If Quatraro wins, he’ll be the second Royals manager to receive the award, following Tony Peña in 2003.
Lugo: Cy Young Finalist
Lugo established career highs with 33 starts and 206.2 innings pitched, ranking second in the majors. He also ranked among AL leaders in quality starts (22), wins (16), ERA (3.00) and WHIP (1.09).
Lugo is seeking his first Cy Young Award, which would make him the fourth Royals pitcher to earn the honor.
Witt Jr.: MVP Finalist
Witt Jr. led the majors with 211 hits and a .332 batting average, becoming the third Royal to lead the majors in average. He’s seeking to become the second Royal to win the AL MVP award, following George Brett in 1980.
Witt Jr. recorded 32 homers and 31 steals, becoming the first shortstop with multiple 30/30 seasons. He’s also the first player with multiple 30/30 campaigns within his first three big league seasons.
The BBWAA will announce the Manager of the Year winners on Nov. 19, Cy Young winners on Nov. 20 and MVP winners on Nov. 21, all at 5 p.m. CT on MLB Network.
