Cal Raleigh Makes MLB History, Leads AL MVP Race

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh became the first catcher and switch-hitter in MLB history to hit 40 home runs before August, accomplishing the feat in a 7-2 win over the Los Angeles Angels. He is now the fifth player in Mariners history to reach 40 homers in a season, joining Ken Griffey Jr. and Alex Rodriguez. Raleigh's historic power surge, coupled with Yankees star Aaron Judge being sidelined for at least 10 days with a right elbow flexor strain, has vaulted him to the top of the American League MVP odds. Raleigh is also closing in on Salvador Perez’s single-season catcher record of 48 home runs. The Mariners remain in the AL West race after homers from Julio Rodriguez and Randy Arozarena in the same game. The MVP contest is expected to be close, but Raleigh’s continued dominance and Judge’s injury may prove decisive.