For the first time in major league history two players are named co-winners of National League MVP award

In a groundbreaking event that has yet to be repeated, Keith Hernandez of the Saint Louis Cardinals and Willie Stargell of the Pittsburgh Pirates were named co-winners of the National League MVP award on November 13, 1979. This marked the first time in major league history that this distinguished honor was shared by two different players. Both players exhibited outstanding performances throughout the season, winning the hearts of baseball enthusiasts and leaving an indelible imprint on the sporting world.

Keith Hernandez, first baseman for the Saint Louis Cardinals, showcased profound prowess in his gameplay throughout the year. Hernandez, a master of both hitting and fielding, proved to be an asset to the Cardinals’ 1979 roster. Earning a phenomenal .344 batting average and 48 doubles on the season, he was a force to be reckoned with on the diamond. Integral to the Cardinals’ lineup, Hernandez also demonstrated exceptional defensive skills, resulting in a .995 fielding percentage. His performance outshined many others in the league that year, supporting his candidacy for the prestigious MVP award.

Equally impressive was Willie Stargell. The Pittsburgh Pirates’ outfielder was not only an important part of the team’s offensive strategy but also played a pivotal role in their incredible season. Stargell was indeed the embodiment of a most valuable player, swatting 32 home runs, and batting in 82 runs — numbers that made him an evident contender for the MVP crown. Not to mention, he was the emotional leader of “We Are Family” Pirates, guiding them to their fifth World Series Championship. Stargell’s charisma, paired with his impressive statistics, made him an equally deserving winner of the MVP award.

The decision to name both Hernandez and Stargell as the co-winners of the National League MVP award was met with widespread admiration. Recognizing the two players’ extraordinary performances over the course of the season, the league decided to honor both, reflecting the sportsmanship and mutual respect that are fundamental to the core of baseball.

The impact of the 1979 dual MVP award extended far beyond the boundaries of professional baseball. It made headlines across major news outlets and quickly became a hot topic in sports discussions. The unprecedented move by the league offered an opportunity for fans and players alike to celebrate the exceptional talent and dedication these athletes brought to the game, serving as an inspiration for aspiring baseball players.

While the event took place over forty years ago, the awarding of the National League MVP title to Keith Hernandez and Willie Stargell remains a milestone in major league history. Despite the many years that have passed since that memorable day on November 13, 1979, this moment continues to be a testament to the exceptional talent that exists in the realm of professional baseball. The co-MVP award has since served as a benchmark for greatness and a reminder that, at the end of the day, it’s possible for two players to share the spotlight for their tremendous contributions to the game of baseball.