Arch Awards: Who Was the MVP of St. Louis Sports in 2016?

Aug 8, 2016; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina (4) celebrates after being hit by a pitch by Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Ross Ohlendorf (not pictured) allowing the game winning run to score during the ninth inning at Busch Stadium. The Cardinals won 5-4. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /

1 of 5

St. Louis Blues Vladimir Tarasenko Brian Elliott

Mar 29, 2016; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Blues right wing Vladimir Tarasenko (91) celebrates with goalie Brian Elliott (1) after defeating the Colorado Avalanche 3-1 at Scottrade Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /

Which player on the St. Louis sports scene made positive contributions to his team above all others this year?

2016 was a down year on the St. Louis sports scene, as the Blues were the only team that reached the postseason in its respective sport. There were plenty of strong individual performances, though, and we’d like to celebrate those performances before the year comes to a close with our annual St. Louis MVP award.

This award goes to the St. Louis athlete (Mizzou players are eligible, though none made the cut this year) who makes the greatest contribution to his team during the 2016 calendar year. Blues forward Vladimir Tarasenko, who is nominated for the honor for the third straight year, has a chance to defend his title as the 2015 St. Louis MVP. 2013 winner Yadier Molina will also have a chance to take the honor for the second time.

Without further ado, let’s take a look at this year’s finalists for our MVP award:

Home/St. Louis Sports