Exploring MLB 2025 Awards: Is Aaron Judge or Cal Raleigh the Real MVP
Race for AL MVP: Aaron Judge vs. Cal Raleigh – Who Will Prevail?
A Historic MLB Season Comes to a Close
This Major League Baseball season has been anything but predictable. From epic comebacks to unexpected downfalls, it has kept fans at the edge of their seats. And now, as the postseason unfolds, the debate over the American League MVP heats up, with Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh taking center stage.
Aaron Judge: Chasing History
Aaron Judge, New York Yankees’ powerhouse right fielder, is no stranger to the MVP race. Aiming for his third MVP title, Judge’s season has been characterized by remarkable stats. Leading the league with a .331 batting average, .458 on-base percentage, and a .691 slugging percentage, Judge is at the top in most statistical categories. His 53 home runs put him in the elite company of Jimmie Foxx and Mickey Mantle, becoming only the third player to hit at least 50 home runs and win a batting title.
Cal Raleigh: Defying Expectations
While Judge’s stats are impressive, Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners breaks barriers in a different way. Known as the “Sultan of Squat,” Raleigh has taken the baseball world by storm, achieving feats no catcher has before. With 60 home runs, he has eclipsed legends like Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Despite the challenging conditions at T-Mobile Park, Raleigh’s contributions have been instrumental in leading the Mariners to their first AL West division title in 24 years.
Statistical Leaders or Team MVPs?
The crux of the MVP debate comes down to defining the term ‘Most Valuable Player.’ While Judge’s offensive stats are unrivaled, Raleigh’s impact on the Mariners extends beyond his hitting. He’s a clubhouse leader, a defensive powerhouse with a Gold Glove, and an essential component in building a championship-contending team in Seattle. For the Mariners, his value is irreplaceable.
What’s at Stake in the MVP Race?
The Baseball Writers’ Association of America will announce the winner of the American League MVP on November 13. The race is tight, with both Judge and Raleigh expected to collect most first- and second-place votes from the American League cities. A historic tie, reminiscent of the 1979 NL MVP race between Keith Hernandez and Willie Stargell, is not off the table, potentially making both players co-MVPs.
Beyond the MVP Fight
- Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers remains a dominant force in the National League with his dual-threat capabilities.
- Detroit Tigers’ Tarik Skubal is poised to win the AL Cy Young award with another exceptional season.
- Nick Kurtz of the Athletics stands out as the frontrunner for the AL Rookie of the Year, boasting an incredible debut season.
- The managerial landscape sees dramatic shifts with Cleveland’s Stephen Vogt and Milwaukee’s Pat Murphy leading the way for Manager of the Year honors.
As the baseball season wraps up, the debates and announcements ahead will shape the history books. Keep following Emegypt for the latest updates in this thrilling baseball narrative.
