Cal Raleigh's Struggles: A Closer Look at the 2025 AL MVP Runner-Up's Slump
Cal Raleigh, the Seattle Mariners catcher and 2025 American League MVP runner-up, is currently in the midst of a prolonged slump. Through 39 games this season, Raleigh has struggled to find his stroke at the plate, with a .157 batting average, 24 hits, and 54 strikeouts. His average exit velocity, barrel percentage, and hard-hit percentage are all at career lows, indicating a lack of power and contact. This slump is particularly concerning given his impressive performance last season, where he was a key contributor to the Mariners' success.
Raleigh's struggles are not limited to his hitting. He has also been a liability defensively, with a -0.2 wins above replacement (WAR) rating. His poor performance has led to a decline in his overall contribution to the team, and it remains to be seen if he can recover from this slump. The Mariners will need to find a way to get Raleigh back on track if they want to maintain their playoff hopes.
Brendan Donovan's Defensive Heroics
While Raleigh has been struggling, another Mariners player, Brendan Donovan, has been making a name for himself. Donovan, a third baseman, showcased his defensive skills with a slick play at the hot corner against the Houston Astros. His diving play and subsequent throw to first base resulted in an out, highlighting his importance to the team's defense.
Despite his defensive heroics, Donovan has also been struggling offensively, with a .257 batting average and just three home runs. However, his ability to make key defensive plays is a testament to his all-around contribution to the team.
The Mariners' Dominance Over Houston
The Mariners' overall performance against the Astros has been impressive. They have won 8 of their last 10 games against Houston, including a 3-1 victory in their most recent matchup. The Mariners' success against the Astros is a testament to their overall strength and depth as a team.
Arizona Diamondbacks' Shutout Victory
In other news, the Arizona Diamondbacks silenced the Texas Rangers in a 1-0 shutout victory. The D-backs' right fielder, Corbin Carroll, and shortstop, Geraldo Perdomo, both had two hits, with Perdomo driving in Carroll for the game's only run. The Diamondbacks' starting pitcher, Mike Soroka, pitched a solid 6 ⅓ innings, allowing just one run.
The Giants' Victory Over the Dodgers
The San Francisco Giants beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 9-3, with designated hitter Rafael Devers launching a solo home run and left fielder Heliot Ramos driving in two runs. The Giants' right-hander, Trevor McDonald, pitched 5 ⅓ innings, allowing just one baserunner. The Giants' bullpen then shut down the Dodgers, allowing just one baserunner over the next 3 ⅔ innings.
Max Muncy's Peculiar Offensive Start
Max Muncy, the Dodgers' third baseman, is having a peculiar offensive start to the season. Despite hitting 11 home runs, he has just 17 RBIs, with five of those homers being solo shots. However, Muncy is still having a highly productive season, boasting a 166 OPS+, 2.2 wins above replacement (WAR), and a .280/.375/.568 slash line. He is on pace for a career-high in home runs and WAR, while his current batting average and OPS+ are career bests.
Baltimore Orioles' Late Power
The Baltimore Orioles snapped a nine-game losing streak to the New York Yankees with a 3-2 victory. Orioles designated hitter Coby Mayo demolished a go-ahead, three-run home run, accounting for all of Baltimore's scoring. First baseman Ben Rice, a potential AL MVP candidate, continued his hot streak with a two-run home run, leading the AL in slugging percentage, OPS, and OPS+.
Cleveland Guardians' Early Success
The Cleveland Guardians struck early against the Los Angeles Angels, scoring seven runs in the first three innings. Catcher David Fry, first baseman Kyle Manzardo, and second baseman Travis Bazzana each had two hits, with Bazzana driving in two runs. The Guardians' starting pitcher, Joey Cantillo, pitched six shutout innings, allowing just two runs.
Tampa Bay Rays' Impressive Record
The Tampa Bay Rays are currently the best team in the American League, with a 27-13 record. They have defeated the Toronto Blue Jays for the fourth consecutive time, winning 8-5. The Rays' starting rotation is first in WHIP and third in ERA, with Nick Martinez, Shane McClanahan, and Drew Rasmussen all pitching well. The Rays' bullpen is also strong, with closer Bryan Baker leading the AL in saves.
