Cal Raleigh Tops Aaron Judge in AL Home Runs Amid MVP Race

Aaron Judge is having a historic 2025 MLB season, leading the American League in multiple offensive categories including home runs, runs, on-base percentage, and OPS. While he recently lost the AL home run lead to Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners, Judge’s overall performance still places him as a frontrunner for the MVP award, potentially earning his third career title. Judge is also on track to achieve a rare feat by finishing the season with a batting average around .400, a milestone last reached by Ted Williams in 1941. Despite the strong competition from Raleigh, who has emerged as a top contender due to his power, discipline, and defensive skills as a catcher, Judge continues to anchor the Yankees’ success with an MLB-best 4.7 WAR and leadership in key stats. Meanwhile, Yankees prospect George Lombard Jr. has recently surpassed Judge in walks at the Double-A level, highlighting the depth of talent within the organization. Judge's combination of historic-level offense and consistent production keeps him central to the MVP conversation and the Yankees’ competitive edge this season.