In a moment that shook the entire baseball world, Cal Raleigh – the Seattle Mariners’ catcher – was officially honored by TIME Magazine in the list of “Most Influential Young People of the Year”, surpassing a series of veteran superstars, even surpassing Yankees MVP Aaron Judge in the MLB influence category. This is not only a personal honor, but also a historical milestone, marking Raleigh’s spectacular leap from a potential catcher to a new icon of modern baseball.
TIME describes Raleigh as “the face of a new generation of players who are reshaping MLB culture” – a review that has caused a stir. In a list full of globally influential figures, it is rare to see an MLB player appear, and it is even more shocking to see a superstar like Aaron Judge above him.
Judge is still recognized by TIME as a model of traditional strength and stability, but Raleigh is praised by TIME as “a breath of fresh air that is changing the way the world views baseball stars”. That is enough to show that Raleigh’s influence has gone beyond the field.
Raleigh’s accomplishments are no “coincidence” – his 2025 season was a statement of class:
42 home runs – a Mariners record for a catcher
113 RBI – a number that defies all previous generations of catchers
.892 OPS, leading the entire MLB in the catcher group
Excellent defense with a career-high stolen base rate
The entire MLB bowed its head and admitted that Raleigh was not only strong on offense, but also a true leader in the locker room – a key contributor to the Mariners’ recovery during the most difficult period.
TIME said they were not only evaluating athletic achievements, but also cultural influence, community outreach and the ability to lead the younger generation. And of those three factors – Raleigh excels:
He actively participates in campaigns to support the Seattle youth community
He is a representative of a group of young players who dare to speak up about mental health in sports
He inspires thousands of young athletes with his story of overcoming doubts about his ability at the beginning of the season
He builds a rustic, honest but strong image – something that is capturing the hearts of MLB fans
TIME rated Raleigh as “a symbol of transformation – the uprising of the younger generation in MLB”.
Soon after TIME’s list was announced, the Mariners posted a proud congratulatory message:
“Cal is not only the soul of the team, he is the future of this sport.”
Meanwhile, the Yankees fan community is not disappointed – many admit:
“Judge is a legend, but Raleigh is truly rewriting the new chapter of MLB.”
TIME’s fairness has been a hot topic for the past 24 hours – but most experts agree: Raleigh deserves it.
This success is more than just an award – it signals the beginning of a new era. Cal Raleigh has officially entered the ranks of influential figures who transcend the boundaries of sports, a symbol of consistency, endurance and explosiveness.
From an underrated player when he first came to MLB to a TIME honoree – this is a magical journey that few have achieved.
CONGRATULATIONS TO CAL RALEIGH – MLB’S NEW STAR, FUTURE PILLAR, AND NOW A GLOBAL INFLUENCER!
Seattle is on fire – and MLB is witnessing the birth of a young legend.
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