2012 AL MVP: Mike Trout or Miguel Cabrera?

Now that Detroit Tigers third baseman Miguel Cabrera has officially won Major League Baseball’s first Triple Crown award in more than 40 years, let the debate begin. Who should be the American League Most Valuable Player this season, Cabrera or Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout.

The case for each player is strong.

As previously stated, Cabrera has done something no other player has done in a long time; lead a league in batting average, home runs and RBI. The slugger finished the season hitting .330/.393/.606 with 40 doubles, 44 home runs and 139 RBI.

Not only was he able to have one of the most productive offensive seasons in a long time, but Cabrera was able to help lead his team to the postseason.

While this is something Trout cannot boast, his 2012 campaign is no less impressive when you take into account his work in the outfield and on the base paths. The 21-year-old hit .326/.399/564 with 27 doubles, 30 home runs, 83 RBI and 49 stolen bases in 54 attempts. This all came with 58 less plate appearances than Cabrera.

These numbers, along with Trout’s impressive defensive rating, led to another impressive feat; a 10+ WAR (wins above replacement) season.

So, considering their seasons, who’s your AL MVP; Trout or Cabrera?