Here's one interesting theory I just thought of, as to why the writers will bypass Trout in favor of Cabrera.
I mean, besides the whole "post-season" drama that's over-rated (Detroit plays in a weak division relative to the Angels), and the nostalgia of Triple Crown (however irrelevant those stats might be)...
They have to give Trout the Rookie of the Year award, right? I can't think of a better rookie this year.
So, if he gets that hardware, isn't it like a consolation prize for not winning the MVP?
After all, the only other guys to win ROY and MVP are Ichiro, and Freddy Lynn. So it really doesn't happen that often, even though some rookies have put up fantastic seasons (like McGwire in 87, for example).