Here's my take on the Big Papi vs. A-Rod MVP debate.

Think about it this way. In 2003, the year before Alex Rodriguez arrived, the Yankees won the American League pennant and lost to the Marlins in the World Series. In 2004, their first year with A-Rod, they lost in the ALCS. This year, they are struggling to make the playoffs.

On the other hand, the Red Sox didn't make the playoffs in 2002. In 2003, after signing David Ortiz they lost in game 7 of the ALCS. In 2004 they won their first World Series in 86 years. This year the Sox are locked in a battle with the Yankees to make the playoffs, but they've done it without their ace starter and closer most of the year.

Now, who do you think is more valuable?