Story perspectives

AL MVP Race Heats Up: Raleigh vs. Judge Showdown

9/21/2025

Summary

Story summary

The AL MVP race is tight, with Cal Raleigh leading Aaron Judge 7-6 in a recent poll among MLB executives.
Judge boasts 48 home runs, a .327 batting average, and 104 RBIs, while Raleigh has 56 home runs and 118 RBIs.
Judge excels in offensive metrics but has played as a designated hitter due to injury.
Raleigh's defensive skills as a catcher bolster his MVP candidacy.
Both players have set significant records this season, fueling a passionate debate among fans.

History

Historical Context

In 1961, Roger Maris set a new single-season home run record with 61 homers, surpassing Babe Ruth's 1927 record of 60, amid controversy over the longer 162-game season. This debate over record legitimacy continues today, as players like Cal Raleigh and Aaron Judge vie for the AL MVP title, reflecting ongoing discussions about evolving metrics and player roles in baseball.

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Story summary

The AL MVP race is tight, with Cal Raleigh leading Aaron Judge 7-6 in a recent poll among MLB executives.
Judge boasts 48 home runs, a .327 batting average, and 104 RBIs, while Raleigh has 56 home runs and 118 RBIs.
Judge excels in offensive metrics but has played as a designated hitter due to injury.
Raleigh's defensive skills as a catcher bolster his MVP candidacy.
Both players have set significant records this season, fueling a passionate debate among fans.

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