Johnson, 36 at the time, finished the 1924 campaign (23-7) in 38 starts, posting a 2.72 ERA, 77 walks (2.50 BB/9) and 158 Ks (5.12 K/9) in 277 ⅔ innings pitched.
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The third baseman got 23 first-place votes from members of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America in results announced Thursday.
Though the Washington Nationals’ season fell short of expectations, Harper did not as he led the majors in on-base percentage (.460), slugging (.649) and WAR (9.9).
He beat out Cincinnati Reds’ first baseman Joey Votto and Arizona Diamondbacks’ first baseman Paul Goldschmidt for the MVP Award after winning a Silver Slugger, the Hank Aaron Award and the NL Outstanding Player award as voted on by his fellow major leaguers.
“The entire Lerner family extends congratulations to Bryce on his well-deserved Most Valuable Player award and his tremendous, record-setting season”, said Washington Nationals Managing Principal Owner Theodore N. Lerner. He was second in batting average (.330) and walks (124).
Harper is now the first MVP in the history of the Washington Nationals. While most expected Harper to be named the NL’s MVP, it’s still a monumental accomplishment for the 23-year-old, who had one of the best seasons by any player in recent memory.
The MVP award was the only NL honor not given to a Cubs player, but the Cubs were well-represented in the voting.
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The 2015 season marked the first year Harper wasn’t hampered by injuries. Goldschmidt finished with 18 second-place votes and 234 total points. His constantly changing hairstyles are always getting attention and the selfie he took in the outfielder before a game at Nationals Park this season boosted his popularity even more. It was not originally meant to be just a “Player of the Year” award, but it is often that and there is no question that Harper fits the bill.
