I was just looking at the NL win share leaders, updated through Sept. 10, and see that Pujols has taken a clear lead over Bonds. It's a perfect example of how win shares can help clarify an MVP argument. Bond is clearly having a superior offensive season based on the averages. But Pujols has been there every day. Even without his father's death, Bonds missed a lot of playing time this year. Before, there was no clear way of measuring if Bonds, playing 26 fewer games, could be more valuable than Pujols playing every day. Now we know.

Pujols leads Bonds 39.14 to 37.20. Which just goes to show how amazing Bonds' season is. He's created almost as many wins in 26 fewer games. But I really believe you have to play to win. That was my argument against Pedro Martinez in 1999; he just didn't pitch enough to win the award (however, no one should have left him off the ballot, either). And it's the same this year. Bonds is the best hitter in the league, but Pujols is damn close and plays everyday. Bonds can catch up in two weeks, but right now, I'd vote for Albert.