Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh is delivering a season that could make baseball history, currently on pace to hit 58 home runs, surpassing the all-time catcher single-season record of 48. Leading the American League in home runs with 19, Raleigh is also reaching new personal bests with a .256 batting average and a .371 on-base percentage, fueling discussions about his Cal Raleigh MVP candidacy and record-breaking season.
His impressive offensive statistics are matched by outstanding defensive skills, recently earning him the 2024 AL Platinum Glove. This combination makes Raleigh one of the most complete players in the league and a strong contender for MVP honors this year.
Expert analysis highlights Raleigh’s value beyond the batter’s box
MLB Network analyst Jon Morosi shared his insights on Raleigh’s chances during a recent interview on Seattle Sports Wyman and Bob. He noted that although predicting a first-place MVP finish is difficult, Raleigh’s performance stands out among catchers in the American League.
I think he’ll get some votes on ballots. Now, does that mean he’ll finish first? Hard to say,
Morosi said.
But I’ll say this, we have not seen many catchers in the American League in recent years put up numbers like what Cal Raleigh is doing. … He is one of the most valuable players in the American League.
—Jon Morosi, MLB Network Analyst
Morosi emphasized that Raleigh’s leadership with the Mariners’ pitching staff adds a critical dimension to his MVP case, one often overlooked by traditional statistics.
Fierce MVP competition from Aaron Judge poses a challenge
While Raleigh’s production is remarkable, he faces tough competition from reigning AL MVP Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees. Judge trails Raleigh by just one home run and boasts a staggering .395 batting average and a .492 on-base percentage, underscoring the intense race for the award.
Morosi explained that Raleigh’s defensive contributions and influence on the Mariners’ pitching are rare qualities that could sway voters if Seattle maintains its position atop the division.
As someone that voted for the MVP before, I would look quite favorably upon his argument if, of course, the Mariners win the division (and) if he continues to have this level of production,
Morosi said,
because his impact is not just on the offensive side (with) the home runs. The defensive value to this team is something truly extraordinary.
—Jon Morosi, MLB Network Analyst
The importance of contextual evaluation for MVP voting
Morosi urged voters to consider Raleigh’s overall influence on his team beyond traditional metrics like wins above replacement. He highlighted the significance of firsthand observation when assessing catchers, who contribute in ways numbers may not fully capture.
What I would stress to all the voters … is that the catching position is the one spot where you really cannot just go on wins above replacement, what the numbers say,
Morosi said.
You really have to watch this guy’s team play and understand how important he is to properly fill out your ballot. And I just hope that everybody really takes a look at the context in which Raleigh is putting up these extraordinary numbers.
—Jon Morosi, MLB Network Analyst
His call for a nuanced evaluation stresses the rarity and magnitude of Raleigh’s contributions both offensively and defensively.
Seattle Mariners’ prospects and wider team context
The Mariners continue to rise in the AL West standings, fueled by performances from players like Raleigh and the potential return of outfielders. Young talent such as Cole Young is also showing promise with standout games, adding depth to the roster.
Veteran insights from figures like John Smoltz and coverage by media outlets have highlighted the Mariners as a formidable team this season, further increasing the weight of Raleigh’s MVP candidacy if the team secures a division title.
As the trade deadline approaches, Seattle’s management could make strategic moves that influence the team’s championship chances and, by extension, Raleigh’s bid for MVP recognition.