Yanks (barely) in AL MVP race

The most valuable player in the American League is...muddled. The Yankees have the  best record, but probably not the best candidate.  

Josh Hamilton (.361, 31 HR, 97 RBIs) of the Rangers has been the leading candidate, but not if he doesn't get back in the lineup. He's had a sore knee and now bruised ribs and when asked about his return, was quoted  ``I have no idea.''  The award is his to lose, which will happen with a protracted absence.

Miguel Cabera (.336, 33, 110) of the Tigers has been this blogger's choice all along, but  voters generally support players on division-leading teams. Without Jose Bautista's career year in homers for Toronto, Cabera would have been a Triple Crown threat.

Cabera wins the MVP only if Hamilton misses significant time or slumps upon his return.

The MVP door stays open, but only slightly, for Robinson Cano (.319, 26, 93) and Mark Teixeira (.266, 30,  99). However, neither will win as the vote would be split between the two. Don't be surprised if pitcher CC Sabathia gets some votes. 

Sabathia will get the Cy Young as most view the MVP as a hitter's award. Cano was the first half MVP for the Yanks, Teixeira the second half. They'll have to settle for that.