Raleigh Breaks Catcher HR Record, Leads Judge in 2025

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh became the first catcher in MLB history to hit 19 home runs through his team’s first 53 games, breaking Roy Campanella’s 70-year-old record. Raleigh, a 2024 Platinum Glove winner, is also widely regarded as the best defensive catcher in the American League. His all-around contributions have placed him among the league leaders in Wins Above Replacement (WAR) and in the American League MVP conversation. Meanwhile, Yankees slugger Aaron Judge continues to dominate with a 1.234 OPS and is drawing intentional walks at a rate reminiscent of Barry Bonds, underscoring the respect he commands from pitchers. Raleigh currently holds a slight home run lead over Judge, intensifying the MVP race. Their outstanding performances are shaping the AL narrative in the 2025 MLB season.