Key Highlights
- Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh are in a tight race for the American League MVP.
- Judge aims to become only the third player in MLB history to hit at least 50 home runs and win a batting title in the same season.
- Raleigh won both the Player of the Year and AL Outstanding Player of the Year awards from the MLB Players Association.
- The results will be revealed on Thursday night, with only two votes to decide the winner.
Tight Race for American League MVP
As Major League Baseball (MLB) prepares to reveal the 2025 American League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, the competition between Yankees’ star Aaron Judge and Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh is heating up. The results of a heated AL MVP vote will be announced on Thursday night, with the two players competing in an ultra-tight race for the prestigious award.
Aaron Judge’s Dominance
The Yankees captain has had a remarkable season, leading the league in several offensive categories. Judge hit .331 and won his first batting title while also recording a .457 on-base percentage and a .688 slugging percentage. His 1.144 OPS (on-base plus slugging) was the highest in the majors, with an OPS-plus of 215 that was significantly higher than Raleigh’s 169.
Cal Raleigh’s Record-Breaking Season
Raleigh has also had a standout season as a switch-hitter and catcher. He hit 60 home runs, setting the single-season record for catchers and switch-hitters. Despite falling short of Judge’s AL-record 62 home runs, Raleigh still managed to start 121 out of his 159 games at catcher while withstanding the demanding position. His strong framing metrics and handling of a top pitching staff are notable achievements.
Statistical Edge
While Judge’s overall offensive performance was exceptional, Raleigh’s defensive contributions should not be overlooked. The switch-hitter led in both Wins Above Replacement (bWAR) and fWAR, with 9.7 bWAR compared to Raleigh’s 7.4 and 10.1 fWAR versus Raleigh’s 9.1.
Voter Considerations
There is a possibility of voter fatigue for Judge, who has made his impressive stats seem somewhat routine despite achieving an unprecedented feat this year. His candidacy may also face scrutiny due to the MLB Players Association naming Raleigh both the Player of the Year and AL Outstanding Player of the Year.
The voting process is set to conclude on Thursday night, with the results poised to determine whether Judge will become only the third player in MLB history to hit at least 50 home runs and win a batting title in the same season. The outcome could also signify a new era for the Yankees, potentially leading to discussions about re-signing Cody Bellinger or acquiring Edwin Diaz.
