Aaron Judge's Opinion of Cal Raleigh Made Crystal Clear Amid Home Run Race

Aaron Judge's Opinion of Cal Raleigh Made Crystal Clear Amid Home Run Race originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The New York Yankees finally stopped their bleeding, as they defeated the New York Mets on Sunday, 6-4, to snap a six-game slide and prevent a sweep at the hands of Pete Alonso and company.

Yankees superstar outfielder Aaron Judge played a significant role in the Bronx Bombers' victory, with the reigning American League Most Valuable Player hitting a two-run home run in the fifth inning and driving in another run in the seventh off a sacrifice fly. 

With his latest blast, Judge improved his 2025 MLB season total to 33 home runs, just two short of Seattle Mariners designated hitter Cal Raleigh's big-league leading output of 35 taters through Sunday.

Another challenge lies ahead for the Yankees as they look to sustain their newfound momentum. The Seattle Mariners are set to visit New York for a three-game series at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx that begins this coming Tuesday, with the home run race between Judge and Raleigh adding to the excitement.

Judge has nothing but respect for Raleigh, who did not hit a home run during the Mariners' 1-0 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday.

“He’s a complete hitter,” Judge said after the Mets game, per Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News. “Hits the ball all over the park. Being able to be a switch-hitter, and have both your swings on like that, it’s impressive, so I’m excited to see him.”

The Yankees, who are 49-41, have dropped to second place in the American League East standings due to their recent struggles and the rise of the Toronto Blue Jays.

Related: Cal Raleigh Keeps on Hammering Homers for Seattle Mariners

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 7, 2025, where it first appeared.