Aaron Judge’s socks may have played a surprising role in Cal Raleigh’s Derby win originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Forget launch angle. Forget exit velocity. If you ask ESPN analyst Eduardo Perez, the secret to Cal Raleigh’s Home Run Derby breakout might have been… Aaron Judge’s socks?

The Seattle catcher is on a historic pace, hitting 38 home runs before the All-Star break. Some changes he made in the minor leagues have fueled his tear.

For one of the only times in his career, it is entirely fair to say that Aaron Judge is the “Other Slugger” in a baseball game.”

Raleigh fulfilled another dream by participating, and winning, Monday's Home Run Derby and he brought his family along again. Todd was rewarded with the job of throwing to him. His 15-year-old brother, Todd Jr., took Cal's usual spot behind the plate.

Aaron Judge isn't leading MLB in home runs at the All-Star break -- trivia question: Who does? That would be Cal Raleigh, who is in the field -- but he is second in the majors at 35 homers. So: why isn't he in the 2025 Home Run Derby, set to start on Monday night at Truist Field in Atlanta?