Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon won his third manager of the year award after guiding the Cubs to a 97-65 record and a berth in the NLCS.
Maddon, 61, expertly guided a team loaded with talent but not much experience. After hovering just above .500 for over half the season the Cubs took off in August and September finishing exactly 19-9 each month. He deftly handled the promotions of top picks Addison Russell, Kyle Schwarber and newly minted rookie of the year Kris Bryant giving them all major responsibilities but keeping the pressure at a minimum by stressing a relaxed locker room.