Stanton named finalist for MVP along with Kershaw, McCutchen

Surprise, surprise!

Okay, maybe not.

As expected, Marlins slugger Giancarlo Stanton has been named a finalist for the National League MVP award alongside Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw and Pirates outfielder Andrew McCutchen, who won the award last year.

Last month, Stanton was selected as the National League's Hank Aaron Award winner, given to the best hitter in each league. His biggest competition for the MVP will be Kershaw, who should win the Cy Young and is considered by many to be the favorite for the MVP.

The MVP winner will be announced Thursday, Nov. 13 at 6 p.m.