India, July 18 -- A raccoon with an unusually short spine has become Seattle's latest internet sensation. Residents of the area and netizens are rallying behind the animal, affectionately naming him Jimothy. Jimothy, the raccoon, has drawn thousands of social media posts, fan art and even recognition from the Seattle Mariners.

Residents shared videos of him roaming backyards, climbing balconies and squeezing through tight spaces despite his distinctive body shape.

On Friday, the Seattle Mariners changed their Instagram profile picture to an illustration of Jimothy wearing a Mariners cap. A local sports account declared: "Jimothy has officially made it to the big leagues."

Jimothy first caught public attention after Seattle residents be...