As expected, Bryce Harper named a finalist for NL MVP

In no shock, the Baseball Writers' Association of America named Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper as a finalist for the National League Most Valuable Player award. Harper is the favorite to take home his first MVP when it's announced on Nov. 19, but the young slugger faces stiff competition with Reds first baseman Joey Votto and Diamondbacks first baseman Paul Goldschmidt in contention.

After battling injuries the past two seasons, Harper experienced a breakout campaign in 2015. He blasted 42 homers, tying Rockies third baseman Nolan Arenado for most in the NL, and drove in 99 runs, tied for the fifth-highest mark in the league.

Harper entered 2015 as a .272 career hitter, but a more disciplined approach at the plate coupled with good health helped Harper bat .330 this season, second best in the NL. Harper also ended up setting a franchise record by walking 124 times, the second-highest mark in the NL. His 118 runs scored were the most in the league. And Harper led the majors in on-base percentage (.460), slugging percentage (.649), OPS (1.109) and WAR (9.9).

In fact, Harper's 1.109 OPS was the second-best mark all-time for a 22-year-old behind the legendary Ted Williams (1.287) and in front of Hall of Famers Joe DiMaggio (1.085) and Jimmie Foxx (1.066).

"It was awesome," Nats outfielder Jayson Werth said of Harper's historic year. "I'm really proud of him. He had a great season. MVP-caliber season. You don't see those too often."

Goldschmidt drilled 33 homers with 110 RBIs and his .321 average was third best behind Marlins second baseman Dee Gordon and Harper. Votto slashed .314/.459/.541 with 29 home runs, 80 RBIs and a major league-leading 143 walks.

Here are the other BBWAA finalists for the NL:

Manager of the Year

Terry Collins, Mets
Mike Matheny, Cardinals
Joe Maddon, Cubs

Rookie of the Year

Kris Bryant, Cubs
Matt Duffy, Giants
Jung Ho Kang, Pirates

Cy Young Award

Jake Arrieta, Cubs
Zack Greinke, Dodgers
Clayton Kershaw, Dodgers