Mariners' Cal Raleigh Sets Historic Home Run Records, Contends for AL MVP

The Seattle Mariners, led by star catcher Cal Raleigh, have reached a pivotal Game 7 in the American League Championship Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, aiming for the franchise's first World Series appearance. Raleigh has had a historic season, setting multiple home run records for catchers, including breaking marks held by legends such as Salvador Perez, Mickey Mantle, and Ken Griffey Jr., finishing with 60 home runs. He is a strong contender for the AL MVP award, competing closely with New York Yankees' Aaron Judge, with Raleigh leading in home runs and RBIs, while Judge leads in other key metrics like WAR and batting average. Raleigh's season is notable for his career highs across almost all statistical categories, and if he wins the MVP, he would be the first catcher since 2012 and the 13th in MLB history to receive the honor. His girlfriend, Hannah Shimek, a former national champion softball player and current hitting instructor, has been a supportive presence throughout his breakthrough year. Despite the Mariners' loss in the ALCS, Raleigh's achievements have established a significant legacy for both himself and the Mariners franchise.