BREAKING: Seattle Mariners star Cal Raleigh has just made history by hitting his 48th and 49th home runs of the season, breaking the single-season record for catchers previously held by Salvador Perez of the Kansas City Royals. This remarkable achievement occurred during Sunday’s game against the Oakland Athletics.
In a thrilling display of power, Raleigh launched both homers in the first and second innings off A’s left-hander Jacob Lopez. Each home run was a two-run shot, bringing his total to 40 home runs as a catcher this season. These milestones cement Raleigh’s status as a leading slugger, with a major-league best in home runs this season.
Raleigh’s record-breaking performance comes on the heels of an impressive career trajectory. The 28-year-old catcher is now the first player to hit consecutive seasons of over 100 RBIs since Mike Piazza from 1996-2000, and the first American League backstop to achieve this feat since Thurman Munson from 1975-77. Raleigh currently boasts an impressive 106 RBIs this season.
Only four other players in MLB history have hit at least 40 homers in a season while primarily playing catcher: Johnny Bench (twice), Roy Campanella, Todd Hundley, and Mike Piazza (twice). Bench, Campanella, and Piazza are all Hall of Famers, adding to the significance of Raleigh’s accomplishment.
Raleigh’s rise to fame was marked earlier this year when he became the first switch-hitter and catcher to win the All-Star Home Run Derby in July, joining the ranks of legendary Mariners like Ken Griffey Jr., a three-time winner.
As the Mariners continue their quest for the postseason, Raleigh’s contributions are more crucial than ever. Fans are buzzing with excitement as this record not only highlights his individual talent but also propels the Mariners into the spotlight.
What’s next for Raleigh? With the season nearing its end, baseball enthusiasts will be watching closely to see if he can extend his record and lead the Mariners in the playoffs. This is a story that promises to evolve as the days progress, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Stay tuned for more updates on Raleigh’s journey and the Mariners’ playoff aspirations as he continues to make history!