Even before the 2008 season started, the Utley MVP buzz was palpable.  With the first half of the season came MVP-like performances from both Utley and Pat Burrell, both of whom slowed down considerably but contributed more than can be said to the ultimate success of their team this year.

Then came Ryan Howard, staking an early claim in his already storied carried toward becoming the definitive Mr. September.  Even though he was spotty or streaky or whatever other cliche you want to use here, who else in the National League contributed more to a team this year, and did so in the clutch?  Does anyone else even come close? 

If it’s fair to base this decision on late-season performance (which I think it has to be), Manny Ramirez is a compelling, frustrating, and disgustingly talented prospect.  But can baseball really honor the man who willfully became the Least Valuable Player in the American League as the Senior Circuit’s best?  In the public relations of parity, does the fact that Philly won the Series with the last two reigning MVPs (Rollins ’07 and Howard ’06, who was also ROY ’05), two ’08 Gold Gloves (Rollins and Victorino), and the only viable NL Cy candidate (Lidge) actually bolster Ramirez’s chances?

Speaking of Cy, who else but Lidge?  The man was perfect in a season that culminated in a world championship.  Yes, Sabathia was dominant, nay, brilliant since joining the Brewers, but Lidge was perfect.  Doesn’t that settle it?  What a team.