Joel Sherman’s 3 Things I Think: AL MVP race, Max Fried and robot umpires

Cal Raleigh made headlines by hitting his 59th and 60th home runs during a crucial game that secured the Seattle Mariners' AL West title. This achievement not only highlights Raleigh's impressive performance this season but also marks a significant milestone for the team, showcasing their growth and competitiveness in the league. Fans are excited as this victory sets the stage for a promising postseason.

Cal Raleigh has reached an impressive milestone of 60 home runs, putting him in the spotlight as he chases Aaron Judge's record. This achievement not only highlights Raleigh's talent but also raises questions about his playing time as the Mariners navigate their season. Fans are excited to see how this will impact the team's strategy moving forward.

In a thrilling game against the Chicago White Sox, New York Yankees star Aaron Judge made history by hitting two home runs, joining the legendary Babe Ruth in an exclusive home run club. This achievement not only highlights Judge's incredible talent but also adds to the rich legacy of the Yankees, making it a significant moment for fans and baseball enthusiasts alike.

The race for the 2025 AL MVP is heating up as Joel Sherman highlights the compelling arguments for both Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh. With Judge's impressive performance and Raleigh's breakout season, fans are in for an exciting showdown. Additionally, Sherman's praise for Max Fried's stellar debut with the Yankees adds another layer of intrigue. As Major League Baseball prepares to introduce the Automated Ball-Strike challenge system in 2026, these developments could significantly impact the game and its players, making this season one to watch.

As the MLB wild-card race intensifies, the Yankees are looking strong for the postseason, while the Mets face a crucial challenge against the Reds. This matchup is significant as it could determine playoff positions, making every game count. Fans are eager to see how these teams perform under pressure, and the stakes couldn't be higher.

Max Fried is having an outstanding season with the Yankees, achieving his MLB-leading 19th win. Despite a rough patch in July and early August, Fried's performance has been a significant asset for the team, showcasing why they invested heavily in him. His success not only boosts the Yankees' chances in the league but also highlights his potential as a top pitcher.

In an exciting matchup, Ben Rice showcased his skills by catching for Max Fried for the first time, contributing to an impressive 8-1 victory over the White Sox. This performance not only highlights Rice's potential as a key player for the Yankees but also sets the stage for what could be a thrilling playoff preview. Fans are eager to see how this dynamic duo will perform as the postseason approaches.

The Cleveland Guardians have made an impressive comeback, overcoming a staggering 15 and a half game deficit to take the lead in the AL Central division, now sitting one game ahead of the Detroit Tigers with just four games left in the season. This turnaround is significant not only for the Guardians' playoff hopes but also highlights the dramatic collapse of the Tigers, making the final stretch of the season particularly thrilling for fans.

The New York Mets struggled to make progress in the wild-card race after a disappointing performance by rookie Jonah Tong against the Chicago Cubs. This game highlighted the challenges of relying on inexperienced players during critical moments of the season. As the Mets aim for a playoff spot, the pressure on their young talent is mounting, raising concerns about their ability to compete at this level.

Aaron Judge showcased his incredible talent by hitting his 50th and 51st home runs of the season, leading the New York Yankees to a commanding 8-1 victory over the Chicago White Sox. This performance not only highlights Judge's prowess but also ties the Yankees for the top spot in the AL East, making the playoff race even more exciting. Fans are thrilled as the team gears up for the postseason, and Judge's contributions are a significant boost to their chances.

Cleveland Guardians designated hitter David Fry suffered facial fractures and a broken nose after being struck by a 99 mph fastball during a game against the Detroit Tigers. This incident occurred while Fry was attempting to bunt, highlighting the dangers players face on the field. Fortunately, he was discharged from the hospital the following day and is reported to be in good spirits, which is a relief for both the team and fans. His recovery will be closely monitored as the Guardians navigate the rest of the season.

In an exciting matchup, Andrew Alvarez is expected to guide the Nationals to victory against the Braves on Wednesday afternoon, according to predictions from Stitches. This game is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit of Major League Baseball and the potential for the Nationals to gain momentum in the season.

A recent poll reveals that Americans are increasingly choosing to watch newly released movies at home rather than going to theaters. This shift highlights the growing popularity of streaming services, which offer convenience and comfort, allowing viewers to enjoy films without the hassle of a theater visit. As this trend continues, it could reshape the future of the film industry and how movies are distributed and consumed.

Jimmy Kimmel's talk show was suspended indefinitely by ABC following his controversial remarks about Charlie Kirk's alleged assassin. During this challenging time, Kimmel's mother played a crucial role in helping him cope with the situation. This incident highlights the pressures faced by public figures and the importance of family support during difficult moments.

ESPN executive has defended the decision to demote Doris Burke, who has been a prominent figure in sports broadcasting for two seasons alongside Mike Breen and other analysts. The network has decided to replace her with Tim Legler for the upcoming campaign, a move that has sparked discussions about the dynamics of sports commentary. This decision is significant as it reflects the ongoing changes in sports media and the competitive nature of broadcasting roles.

This weekend, many Starbucks locations are expected to close, which could impact your coffee plans. The closures are part of a broader trend affecting the chain, and it's important for customers to stay informed about their local store's status. Knowing whether your favorite spot will be open can help you plan your weekend better.

Fox News has launched its 'Antisemitism Exposed' newsletter, highlighting the alarming rise of anti-Jewish sentiment both in the U.S. and globally. This initiative, led by UN Ambassador Waltz, aims to shed light on these critical issues and foster awareness and understanding. By addressing such a pressing topic, the newsletter plays a vital role in combating hate and promoting tolerance, making it an important resource for those looking to stay informed and engaged.

In a recent episode, 'South Park' took a sharp jab at FCC Chairman Brendan Carr following his call for ABC and Disney to discipline Jimmy Kimmel. This satirical take highlights the ongoing tensions between media figures and regulatory bodies, showcasing how public figures can become targets of humor in response to their actions. It matters because it reflects the cultural landscape where comedy serves as a platform for critique, especially regarding freedom of expression.