Everything seemed to indicate that Aaron Judge had secured the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. With his typically spectacular season in full swing, it seemed the Yankees captain had the award in his pocket. However, the name of another player is increasingly being mentioned, and it seems he’s coming from the Seattle Mariners.
Aaron Judge, batting third for the New York Yankees last Sunday, struck out three against the Boston Red Sox, and with nine in this series, he became the Bronx hitter with the most strikeouts in any series against the Red Sox of all time.
Who’s the player who could compete with Aaron Judge for the MVP?
Cal Raleigh, often known as “Big Dumper” among Mariners fans, isn’t just breaking into the MVP race, he’s opening the door. As of Sunday’s game, he’s now incredibly tied with Judge with 26 home runs.
But here’s the real key: he’s doing it by being the best defensive catcher in the league. Cal Raleigh. Not just a catcher, not just a slugger, but a true force of nature who’s starting to make Judge look down on him.
Mariners President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto spoke about the MVP:
The praise for Raleigh comes directly from Mariners President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto. In a recent interview, he said, “I think the world is just now catching on. He’s the best defensive catcher in the league and one of the best hitters. When our offense runs out of steam, he’s the one who hits the ball.”
It seems like Dipoto is planting a flag and perhaps sending a message to the East. Because there are so many conversations and comparisons between Judge and Cal Raleigh. Sure, Judge still has the spotlight, but if Cal Raleigh keeps his streak going, then the Bronx might need to prepare for a real shakeup on the West Coast.
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