BREAKING: Cal Raleigh just blasted his 47th home run of the season, propelling him closer to the all-time record for catchers, currently held by Salvador Perez with 48 homers. The Seattle Mariners slugger electrified fans during the MLB Little League Classic in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, solidifying his place as one of baseball’s brightest stars.
Raleigh’s two-run dinger in the seventh inning thrilled hundreds of young fans, even as the Mariners fell to the New York Mets, 7-3, marking a tough finish to their three-game series. Despite the loss, the Mariners remain in the thick of the AL wild-card race as they prepare to face the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday.
“He continues to swing a really hot bat,” said Mariners manager Dan Wilson. “I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of that.” Raleigh’s impressive performance this season includes not just power but also consistency, with 102 RBIs already, making him the first catcher to achieve back-to-back 100 RBI seasons since Mike Piazza.
Raleigh, a first-time All-Star at 28, made headlines earlier this season by winning the All-Star Home Run Derby, becoming the first catcher and switch-hitter to take home the title. With his current pace, he is on track to surpass 50 homers this year, joining an elite list of only five players in MLB history who have hit at least 40 home runs while primarily playing catcher.
As the Mariners gear up for their next series, all eyes will be on Raleigh as he aims to make catching history in Philadelphia. “I think it’s been an incredible season for him,” Wilson remarked. “But I think we knew what’s in there. He’s done a great job of bringing it out.” Fans are eagerly anticipating if Raleigh can not only break records but also lead the Mariners to a potential playoff berth.
With the excitement surrounding his achievements, Raleigh’s journey has become a source of inspiration for young athletes everywhere. “You grow up wanting to come here as a kid. Get to do it as an adult now,” Raleigh expressed in an interview with MLB Network. His infectious enthusiasm is palpable, making him a fan favorite and a pivotal player as the season progresses.
Stay tuned for more updates as Raleigh continues his historic chase! This is a season that promises to deliver unforgettable moments in baseball history.