Seattle, WA — Despite not winning the ALMVP, Cal Raleigh’s 2025 season is still considered “one that will live on in basketball history.” With 60 home runs, 125 RBIs, and a series of records set, Raleigh took the MLB world by surprise. But what’s even more special: Mariners fans officially named him the MVP of the King, honoring the catcher’s extraordinary contributions and fighting spirit.
The 2025 season was one of the most unique performances in MLB history. Raleigh not only led the league in home runs, but also led the American League in RBI, while also breaking the Mariners’ catcher, hitter, and franchise home run records. These numbers make for an incredible season, one that many experts say will be talked about for decades to come.
However, the ALMVP award went to Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees. Despite finishing second in the MVP race, Raleigh was still deeply honored and loved by the Mariners community. On social media, fans organized a series of voting battles and the hashtag #TipOfTheCapToRaleigh spread widely, crowning him the Mariners MVP – a living proof that in the hearts of fans, Raleigh is a true hero.
In an emotional message to fans, Raleigh shared:
“I know everyone expected me to win MVP. I’m truly sorry that I didn’t get it. But to be named the Mariners MVP by the fans, it really means a lot. I’m going to keep fighting, every game, every swing, not to depend on the emotions that people give me.”
The recognition from Mariners fans further highlights Raleigh’s true value. Catcher is an extremely difficult position, not only having to endure offensive pressure but also handling the ball, calling plays and leading the formation. Raleigh did it all perfectly, and while he wasn’t an MVP, he was still a pillar of the team.
The numbers for the 2025 season still left fans in awe: 60 home runs – a record for a catcher and hitter, 125 RBIs, countless multi-home run games and game-winning hits, putting the Mariners in a strong position to compete in the AL West. Every swing, every time behind the plate was a testament to sheer determination and dedication.
Pundits say Raleigh’s season will be remembered as one of the greatest by a catcher in baseball history. Mariners fans look not just at the numbers, but also at the spirit, the intensity, and the loyalty to the inning that Raleigh was able to deliver game after game.
While the MVP award didn’t go to Raleigh, the Mariners’ MVP award, presented by the fans, made one thing clear: in the hearts of the fans, Cal Raleigh is a legend, a symbol of Seattle’s strength and pride. The 2025 season isn’t just about numbers and records, it’s about fighting spirit, love for the fans, and showing it on the field.
As the season winds down, the Mariners and their fans still turn their eyes to Raleigh, who wrote an unforgettable history for the program. And for Raleigh himself, the Mariners’ MVP award is a testament to the work, and sometimes, the hearts of the fans, more important than any official award.
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