The New York Mets have been one of the hottest teams in the second half of the season, taking complete control of the National League East thanks to dominant pitching, terrific defense and great coaching. But a mid-season addition, Yoenis Cespedes, has vaulted the Mets into first place.

In all likelihood the Mets will get a top three seed thanks to a divisional victory, but one big debate remains: Who is the National League Most Valuable Player of the Year this season? Cespedes and Bryce Harper are by far the top two leading candidates to win that award.

Cespedes was acquired by the Mets mid-season just before the MLB trade deadline on July 31 from the Detroit Tigers. Harper has more home runs, RBI, a higher batting average, and he leads the league in runs scored. But let's hold on a second. Although Harper leads Cespedes in most statistical categories, Cespedes' play is having a much deeper impact for his team.

Let's dig a little deeper.

A day before the Mets made the trade to acquire the Cuban-born outfielder, they were just 52-50. That same day (July 30) the Nationals were 54-46, in front in the NL East. Since then, the Mets have posted a 31-13 mark for an 83-63 record. In that same time period, the Nationals have disappointed their fans by going just 21-25 for a 75-71 record. The Mets are also 10-6 against the Nationals this season.

There's no doubt Cespedes can't match Harper stat for stat, but the reality is Cespedes is having a much bigger impact for his team than Harper is for his. He has 17 home runs in just 43 games played with the Mets with an impressive .661 slugging percentage with the team. Despite playing in so few games with the Mets this season, Cespedes has the fifth highest WAR (wins above replacement) of any player. Let's also not forget what Cespedes did against the Colorado Rockies, hitting a career high three home runs.

The Mets offense, which earlier in the season ranked last in runs produced, now ranks 17th.

The MVP award doesn't always go to the most consistent player or even the best player, but sometimes to the most valuable player. Between Cespedes and Harper, there's no doubt who's been more valuable to their squad. According to ESPN, the Mets were averaging just 3.54 runs per game before the Cespedes trade, but since the trade, average 6.14 runs per game. That 6.14 run per game average since July 31 is the single highest in the majors. Cespedes' impact on the Mets offense has been tremendous.

Harper defenders aren't without their ammunition either. This season Harper has 40 home runs and an incredible .669 slugging percentage. Harper has been the best offensive player in the NL, but his greatness isn't exactly rubbing off on the team like we see in Queens.

You can definitely make a case for both Cespedes and Harper. It's pure production vs. value in this year's NL race. We must also not completely count out Andrew McCutchen of the Pittsburgh Pirates who will certainly get some votes.

 Follow Damon Salvadore on Twitter @DamonSalvadore1