Cal Raleigh Aims for MVP as Mariners Season Progresses

SEATTLE, Wash. – Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh is on track to achieve a historic season, potentially breaking the single-season home run record for catchers. Raleigh currently has 19 home runs, placing him at the top of the American League, and is projected to hit 58 home runs this season, surpassing the previous record of 48.

In addition to his power hitting, Raleigh has improved his overall performance at the plate, boasting career-high figures of a .256 batting average and a .371 on-base percentage. As the 2024 American League Platinum Glove winner, he also brings exceptional defensive skills to the team, positioning him as a potential MVP candidate.

During a recent discussion, MLB Network’s Jon Morosi weighed in on Raleigh’s MVP prospects, suggesting he is likely to receive some votes. “We have not seen many catchers in the American League in recent years put up numbers like what Cal Raleigh is doing,” Morosi said. “He is one of the most valuable players in the American League.”

However, Raleigh faces tough competition from the reigning AL MVP, Aaron Judge, who is just one home run behind him and is hitting .395 with a .492 OBP. Morosi noted that Raleigh’s unique contributions to the Mariners, particularly his impact on the pitching staff, could bolster his MVP case, especially if the team wins the division.

“His impact is not just on the offensive side,” Morosi added, emphasizing Raleigh’s defensive value. “The catching position is the one spot where you really cannot just go on what the numbers say.”

Raleigh himself agrees that continuous improvement is essential. Reflecting on his progress, he said, “It doesn’t matter how good you are, you never truly figure it out.”