The BIC Defender of the Year will be awarded to the player judged by MLS coaching staffs and general managers to be the best defender during the regular season. Since Major League Soccer has a separate award for goalkeepers, only field players are eligible for the BIC Defender of the Year. Major League Soccer's top netminder will be recognized for his outstanding play by the Pepsi Goalkeeper of the Year trophy. This award is given to the player judged by MLS coaching staffs and general managers to be the best all-around 'keeper during the regular season, based on technical skill, statistical ranking and overall leadership. John The Budweiser Scoring Title, annually given to the player who has the highest point total in MLS, was captured by Columbus Crew forward Stern John, who scored 26 goals and tallied five assists for 57 points, the second-highest point total in league history.
MLS awards two points for a goal and one point for an assist.
Major League Soccer coaching staffs and general managers voted on this talented lineup. The MLS front office award winners will be announced on Friday, October 23, at the league's annual MLS Media Luncheon. Most Valuable Player of the 1998 MLS All-Star Game on August 2, while the MLS Cup '98 Most Valuable Player will be decided by a panel of media immediately following the October 25 championship game.