Should Mariners Star Catcher Be MVP Favorite Over Aaron Judge?

How good has MVP Hopeful Cal Raleigh been this season?

Recently, Raleigh passed Hall of Famer Johnny Bench for the most home runs by a catcher before the All-Star break. This feat was achieved more than 50 years ago in 1970. With 16 games remaining before the All-Star break, Raleigh leads all of baseball with 31 home runs on the season. It's been an incredible season and one of the most memorable offensive seasons by a catcher in recent memory.

The debate intensifies considering the Yankees, currently in first place in the American League East. Much of that success has come from Judge, who is having yet another MVP-caliber season.

Although Raleigh's hitting stats don't necessarily favor him in terms of OPS+ at 200, he is by no means far behind Judge in the offensive category. Nevertheless, with Gold Glove defense, offensive power, and the ability to get on base at a high clip, it certainly begs the question of who truly deserves the award.

In the end, it really depends on what you value as a fan. Judge is a player with very few flaws in his offensive game. He is currently having one of the best seasons of his career, leading a Yankees team aiming for another World Series.

Meanwhile, Raleigh is a key factor for the Mariners, who are fighting for a playoff spot. He's carrying the offense and lineup behind his lock-down defense behind the plate.