In the electrifying world of Major League Baseball, the MVP award stands as the pinnacle of individual achievement. This year, the debate is fiercer than ever: Should Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners have taken the MVP title instead of the New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge? The answer isn’t straightforward, but the stats and heartfelt reactions make this story impossible to ignore.

Cal Raleigh, the Mariners’ gritty catcher, poured his heart and soul into the 2025 season, delivering jaw-dropping moments and clutch plays that ignited Seattle’s playoff run. But Aaron Judge, the towering slugger from the Yankees, dazzled fans nationwide with historic power and record-breaking numbers. So, who truly deserved the MVP crown?

Cal Raleigh played 159 games this season, stepping up to the plate 705 times. He smashed 60 home runs and knocked in 125 RBIs, proving his power and consistency. His WAR (Wins Above Replacement) was an impressive 7.4, a testament to his all-around contributions on offense and defense.

On the other side, Aaron Judge appeared in 152 games with 679 plate appearances. His stats are staggering: 53 home runs, 114 RBIs, and a WAR of 9.7, significantly higher than Raleigh’s. Judge’s batting average (.331), on-base percentage (.457), and slugging (.688) overshadow Raleigh’s numbers, positioning him as an offensive powerhouse.

But statistics alone don’t capture the full story.

Cal Raleigh’s season was about more than just numbers; it was about relentless dedication, grit, and heart. Despite not winning the MVP, Raleigh showed immense humility and appreciation for his fans, sharing an emotional message after the announcement:

“This was a season where I gave my all. Even though I didn’t win the MVP, I want to send my deepest thanks and sincere apologies to the fans. They have always been there for me, and I know they are the biggest source of motivation for me to keep fighting.”

That raw honesty and connection with fans are what made Raleigh a beloved figure in Seattle and beyond.

Aaron Judge, meanwhile, crafted a season for the history books. His OPS+ of 215 and OPS of 1.144 are numbers rarely seen in modern baseball, showcasing elite hitting skills and run production. His leadership both on and off the field solidified his position as an irreplaceable icon for the Yankees.

Judge’s ability to perform under pressure, especially in high-stakes games, swung many debates in his favor. The question remains: does the MVP award solely belong to the player with the best numbers, or should intangibles like leadership and team impact weigh heavier?

MLB fans remain split. Many argue Raleigh’s versatility, stamina, and all-around gameplay deserve more recognition. His ability to deliver under pressure, combined with his hustle, made the Mariners a formidable team this year.

Others defend Judge’s record-breaking stats and influence in a bigger market. After all, baseball history remembers the players who break barriers and set new standards. Judge’s season was nothing short of legendary.

While the MVP title went to Aaron Judge, Cal Raleigh’s season was nothing less than remarkable. His message to fans resonates beyond stats, embodying the spirit of baseball: passion, perseverance, and respect.

In the end, the MVP debate isn’t just about numbers—it’s about the stories behind those numbers, the players’ journey, and the heart they put into the game. Whether you side with Raleigh or Judge, one thing is clear: MLB witnessed greatness from both these stars this year.

And as Cal Raleigh said himself, “They [the fans] are the biggest source of motivation for me to keep fighting.” The fight for greatness continues.