Bob Costas: AL MVP race could come down to who wins AL East
MLB Network and NBC analyst Bob Costas joined the show to talk about a variety of subjects.
Dan told Costas he thinks Curtis Granderson is the leader for AL MVP. Costas agreed there’s a strong case for the Yankees centerfielder. But Costas thinks if the Red Sox win the AL East, Adrian Gonzalez has a good chance.
Costas doesn’t think Tigers ace Justin Verlander has a great chance to win the MVP. “It has to be a year when you don’t have as many obvious day-to-day players as candidates,” Costas said.
Costas pointed to former Yankees ace Ron Guidry. He had a great year in 1978, and barely got any consideration against Jim Rice.
Costas said they also don’t like to give MVP to guys on a losing team. For example, voters won’t go for the Dodgers’ Matt Kemp if there’s an alternative.
Costas also discussed Vin Scully. Costas said Scully is “overwhelmingly” considered the greatest announcer of all time.
Costas had some interesting comments on Michael Vick’s new contract. “My sense is that most people while strongly disapproving of what he did, believe that people are entitled to second chances,” Costas said.