I've never really been of the opinion that a team's record (or composition) should have anything to do with MVP voting. It's an individual award for a game that is very much an individual sport, particularly on offense. Prince Fielder would be just as good on the Cubs or Red Sox or any other team. It's not his fault if his team winds up (hypothetical, obviously) missing the playoffs, nor is it his fault that his lineup is a little more balanced. McGwire should've won it in 98, but I'm not complaining that Sammy took it.