sports

Mental break delays Judge-Raleigh 2026 showdown

Published March 31, 2026 · Updated March 31, 2026 · Yahoo Sport

Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh received a mental break from the lineup as MVP voting fallout continued, delaying his first 2026 showdown with Yankees' Aaron Judge.

Mariners fans booed Judge more than usual during Monday's game due to lingering frustration over the 2025 MVP vote, where Judge won with 17 first-place votes to Raleigh's 13 despite Raleigh's record 60-homer season. Manager Dan Wilson explained Raleigh's day off as necessary for catchers, calling it 'a mental and physical off day' from the grind behind the plate.

Both stars have struggled early in 2026, with Judge going 2-for-11 with seven strikeouts in the Yankees' recent series, while Raleigh is batting just .125 with 11 strikeouts in five games. The delay in their first matchup adds another chapter to their developing rivalry.

Related News

📰

WNBA free agency grades 2026: Live analysis of the biggest free agent signings and trades

📰

Jordan Spieth banks tee shot off patron's hand and onto fairway at 2026 Masters

📰

Latest 2026 Mock Draft predicts Hawks to trade up to No. 3, draft 6'9" 22.4 PGG ACC POTY, create superstar pairing with Jalen Johnson

📰

Find the Best Cricket Academy Near You for Professional Coaching

📰

Masters: Clark, Sungjae Make Moves

📰