Also worth mentioning: Kosuke Fukudome, Cubs; Jair Jurrjens, Braves; John Lannan, Nationals; Joey Votto, Reds

AL Manager of the Year — Bob Geren, A's

No one expected much out of the A's this season, but Geren's rebuilt squad is presently occupying first place in the AL West. Will it last? Maybe not, but it's hard to argue against the job Geren has done managing a young roster and winning despite a basement-level payroll.

Also worth mentioning: Joe Maddon, Rays

NL Manager of the Year — Fredi Gonzalez, Marlins

Speaking of winning despite a basement-level payroll ... Over the winter, the Marlins, at the bidding of their saboteur owner, traded away Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis from a team that won just 71 games in 2007. Still and yet, Gonzalez's charges hold the lead in the NL East, and they've got the highest winning percentage in all of baseball. That, needless to say, runs counter to expectations.

Also worth mentioning: Tony La Russa, Cardinals