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No MLB player has recorded more home runs leading into the All-Star break than Cal Raleigh, the standout catcher for the Seattle Mariners. With an impressive total of 38 home runs through 94 games, Raleigh is on track to eclipse Aaron Judge’s remarkable 62 home run season from 2022.
Raleigh’s breakout season has earned him his first career All-Star selection. In a historic moment, he became the first catcher ever to win the Home Run Derby trophy, as well as the first switch-hitter to achieve this remarkable feat.
In a thrilling final round, Raleigh showcased his power by hitting 18 home runs, surpassing Tampa Bay Rays infielder Junior Caminero, who managed to hit 15.
Raleigh’s memorable derby experience was made even more special by the presence of family. His younger brother, Todd Raleigh Jr., played the role of catcher, while their father threw pitches during the event.
“This moment goes all the way back to when I was a kid, forcing him to throw me balls so I could hit them in the backyard or inside the house, where I probably shouldn’t have been doing that,” Raleigh reminisced about their childhood.
Later, Raleigh shared his brother’s excitement during a conversation on media platform X, stating that Todd had “lived his best life” throughout the event.
He added, “My brother is kind of an awkward teenager, like most kids his age. I did not expect him to take the initiative and cheer me on all night, which was a pleasant surprise.”
In an interview with Fox News Digital on Tuesday, Raleigh took a moment to reflect on the memorable experiences leading up to the All-Star Game.
“So far, winning the Home Run Derby is my favorite moment this season. Getting to share that joy with my family made it even more special,” he explained.
While it is too early to determine if he will defend his Home Run Derby title in 2026, Raleigh remains open to the possibility of participating again.
“I need to make it there first, but if they invite me back, that would be amazing,” he remarked.
Although Judge’s extraordinary performance in 2022 still holds the record for most home runs in a single season by an American League player, he lags just three home runs behind Raleigh this year. This narrow gap between their home run totals evokes memories of the legendary home run race between Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa in 1998.
During that historic season, McGwire hit 70 home runs while Sosa followed closely behind with 66. Some baseball fans are already speculating whether Raleigh and Judge will engage in a similar showdown this season.
At 28 years old, Raleigh admits he was too young to remember the details of the iconic McGwire-Sosa rivalry, but he has certainly learned about its significance in baseball history. He mentioned watching the “30 for 30” documentary on the memorable season, acknowledging the positive impact such events can have on the sport.
While Raleigh did not provide a definitive answer regarding a potential rivalry with Judge, he held the Yankees outfielder in high regard.
“He is an unbelievable player and a week away from hitting 10 more home runs. What a talent,” Raleigh said, expressing his admiration.
With an impressive performance thus far in the season, Raleigh’s name has come up as a potential frontrunner for the American League MVP award. He acknowledges the recognition but emphasizes that his focus remains on contributing to his team’s success.
“It is what it is. If I’m getting recognized, it means that I’m doing something right, which is reassuring. However, my primary focus is on the team and the process. Whatever accolades come after that are just a bonus,” he explained.
In his All-Star game debut, Raleigh went one-for-two, recording a single in the fourth inning. Unfortunately for the American League, the National League triumphed in the first swing-off tiebreaker in the history of the All-Star Game.
As the 2025 season continues to unfold, fans are eager to see how Raleigh’s exceptional performance will impact the remainder of the baseball year. His journey reflects not only his personal achievements but also the ongoing narrative of the Mariners as strong contenders this season.
