With the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) on tap for March 4 to March 17, 2026, it’s the perfect time to take a look at the MVP betting favorites for the international showdown.
While Team USA captain Aaron Judge is the betting favorite to win the award in the World Baseball Classic odds, is he the best bet leading into the tournament?
2026 World Baseball Classic MVP odds
| Player Name | Outlook | |
|---|---|---|
| +700 | Captain America is 3-time AL MVP | |
Shohei Ohtani |
+1200 | Will only hit in 2026 WBC |
| +1200 | Potential "dream team" ace | |
| +1600 | Vet making international debut | |
| +1600 | Proven bomber when it matters most | |
| +1600 | Another potential "dream team" ace | |
| +1800 | Cornerstone in loaded American lineup | |
| +2500 | 5-tool star will set table for US | |
| +2500 | Debuting in stacked D.R. lineup | |
| +2800 | Catcher could win another HR race |

2026 World Baseball Classic MVP predictions
USA captain Aaron Judge sat out in 2023, so his return to action will reshape the landscape of the American lineup. With the Red, White and Blue also the betting favorites to win the tournament, it isn’t surprising to see the reigning AL MVP also carrying the shortest odds in this betting market.
You should definitely expect the reigning World Baseball Classic MVP Shohei Ohtani to also have his say, though. Just note, Ohtani won’t be taking his talents to the pitching mound for a Japan team looking to make it three WBC championships in a row.
Returning to the Americans, Team USA sends out the 2025 Cy Young winners from both the American and National Leagues, with both Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes capable of being the ace of any rotation in the tournament.
Rounding out the betting favorites is Vladimir Guerrero Jr. He’ll be making his international debut with the Dominican Republic and will be in the heart of a potent lineup following a monster postseason this fall.
World Baseball Classic MVP pick: Juan Soto (+2800 at bet365)
The perennial MVP candidate in the majors is an on-base machine and paced the National League in offensive WAR in 2025. Soto also finished third in OPS during the 2023 WBC.
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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Shohei Ohtani






