Ryan Howard for MVP

Reigning Rookie of the Year and Homerun Derby winner Ryan Howard is on a serious tear. He's already hit two homers today giving him 51 for the season (and 131 RBI) and tying Ralph Kiner (in 1947) for most homers by a second year player.

Howard is leading the league in homers, RBI and is second in total bases. He's hitting over .300 and is carrying a Phillies team that is in the thick of the wild card race.

He is as deserving of the MVP as anyone in the league. Pujols is a phenomenal player but Howard has thus far had the better year.

Note: Ryan Howard picture shamelessly ripped off from the excellent 700 Level blog.

Update: The guys at the 700 Level also have video of the play that knocked Aaron Rowand out for the rest of the year:

Update 2: Howard has another. Back to back to back with one more at bat probably. He also has four RBI. Amazing.