Cal Raleigh Faces Off Against MVP Catchers: An In-Depth Analysis

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Cal Raleigh Faces Off Against MVP Catchers: An In-Depth Analysis

As the Seattle Mariners approach a pivotal Game 7 in the American League Championship Series, star catcher Cal Raleigh aims to guide his team toward a historic milestone. The Mariners are the only Major League Baseball team yet to secure a World Series appearance. Regardless of the game’s outcome, Raleigh is also in the running for his first MVP award.

Cal Raleigh’s MVP Challenge

If victorious, Raleigh would become the first catcher to win the MVP award since 2012. He is competing closely with New York Yankees standout Aaron Judge, who is similarly a strong contender for the American League MVP title this season. A win for Raleigh would mark him as the 13th catcher to earn this prestigious accolade and the 19th catcher overall to win the MVP title.

2025 Season Performance

Here are the key statistics reflecting Raleigh’s outstanding 2025 season:

Batting Average: .247
On-base Percentage: .359
Slugging Percentage: .589
Total Hits: 147
Runs: 110
Home Runs: 60 (Led MLB)
RBIs: 125 (Led AL)

In contrast, Aaron Judge boasts impressive statistics as well:

Batting Average: .331
On-base Percentage: .457
Slugging Percentage: .688
Total Hits: 179
Runs: 137 (Led AL)
Home Runs: 53
RBIs: 114

Although Raleigh led the league in home runs, Judge had superior statistics in several categories, including WAR (Wins Above Replacement) and OPS (On-base Plus Slugging).

Historical Context of Catchers and MVPs

A look at catchers who have previously won the MVP award provides valuable context. Bob O’Farrell and Mickey Cochrane were the first catchers to receive this honor in 1926 and 1928, respectively. Changes in MVP voting rules in 1931 broadened the voting process through the Baseball Writers’ Association of America.

Raleigh’s remarkable achievement of hitting 60 home runs this season places him ahead of the previous record for catchers. In RBIs, he ranks third, notably trailing legends Johnny Bench and Roy Campanella.

Comparative Metrics

Despite his impressive home run total, Raleigh’s batting average is lower than that of many past MVP winners. Historically, half of the MVP catchers have averaged above .300, while Raleigh’s average stands at .247, which would be the lowest for an MVP catcher.

Winning the MVP award would align Raleigh with notable figures like Joe Mauer and Buster Posey, both of whom are among the few catchers to win in this century. However, Raleigh has surpassed them in home runs and RBIs, even if he lags in batting average and OPS.

Looking Ahead: The Stakes for Cal Raleigh

Most MVP-winning catchers also had the distinction of winning World Series titles, a feat yet to be accomplished by Mauer and Hartnett. A victory in the upcoming game would not only bolster Raleigh’s MVP aspirations but also set the stage for a potential World Series championship.

As the Mariners prepare for this crucial matchup, the pressure mounts for Cal Raleigh. A significant milestone awaits, one that could redefine his career and the legacy of the Mariners.