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2h ago

AL MVP Race Tightens as Voters Weigh Aaron Judge’s WAR Lead Against Cal Raleigh’s 60 Homers

Some voters are wrestling with possible voter fatigue after Judge’s recent MVP wins.

NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 25: Giancarlo Stanton #27 of the New York Yankees reacts after hitting a double during the game against the Chicago White Sox at Yankee Stadium on September 25, 2025 in New York, New York. (Photo by New York Yankees/Getty Images)
May 30, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; New York Yankees center fielder Aaron Judge (99) celebrates after hitting a solo-home run against the Seattle Mariners during the seventh inning at T-Mobile Park. Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh (29) kneels at right. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
Sep 24, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh (29), left, celebrates in the clubhouse after winning the American League West Division during a game against the Colorado Rockies at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

Overview

  • The contest has narrowed to Judge and Raleigh, with ballots to be cast as the regular season ends.
  • Voters cite Judge’s league-leading WAR and top-tier batting metrics, including OPS, as the cornerstone of his case.
  • Raleigh became the first primary catcher to hit 60 home runs and has about 120 starts behind the plate this season.
  • Several voters call this their toughest decision, reflecting a split between valuing rate dominance and unprecedented power at a demanding position.
  • Discussion of voter fatigue has surfaced, with some suggesting Judge’s prior MVPs could influence how close calls are decided.