Cal Raleigh Hits 60 Home Runs, Making History for the Mariners
In a remarkable display of power hitting, Seattle Mariners‘ catcher Cal Raleigh achieved a significant milestone by smashing his 59th and 60th home runs of the season during a recent game against the Colorado Rockies. This achievement not only solidifies Raleigh’s status as one of the premier sluggers in Major League Baseball (MLB) but also plays a pivotal role in securing the American League West division title for the Mariners.
A Historic Achievement
Raleigh’s two home runs on Wednesday night marked a historic moment, as he became the first player to reach the 60-home run mark since Aaron Judge accomplished the feat in 2022. Judge’s record-breaking season saw him hit 62 home runs, surpassing the long-standing American League record of 61 set by Roger Maris in 1961. Raleigh’s achievement places him in an elite group of players, joining the ranks of Judge, Maris, and the legendary Babe Ruth as the only American League players to hit at least 60 home runs in a single season.
The Power of the Big Dumper
Affectionately nicknamed “The Big Dumper,” Raleigh’s powerful swing has captivated fans and analysts alike. His first home run of the night was particularly impressive, soaring into the upper deck of T-Mobile Park, showcasing not only his strength but also his ability to perform under pressure. This season, Raleigh has not only set personal records but has also redefined expectations for catchers in the league.
Comparisons to Baseball Legends
Raleigh’s achievement is even more remarkable when placed in historical context. He joins an exclusive club that includes three National League players-Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Sammy Sosa-who have also reached the 60-home run milestone. Bonds holds the all-time record with 73 home runs in 2001, while McGwire and Sosa famously battled for the single-season record in 1998, with McGwire finishing with 70 and Sosa with 66.
In addition to his 60 home runs, Raleigh has surpassed several other significant records. He has broken the franchise record for single-season home runs, previously held by Mariners icon Ken Griffey Jr., who hit 56 home runs in both 1997 and 1998. Furthermore, Raleigh has eclipsed Mickey Mantle‘s long-standing record of 54 home runs by a switch-hitter, a record that had stood since 1961.
A Season of Unprecedented Power
The 2025 MLB season has been a historic one for home runs, with Raleigh’s achievement contributing to a rare occurrence where four players have hit at least 50 home runs in a single season. Alongside Raleigh, Aaron Judge, Kyle Schwarber, and Shohei Ohtani have also reached this impressive milestone. This marks only the third time in league history that such a feat has been accomplished, with the previous instances occurring in 1998 and 2001.
In 1998, the home run race captivated fans as McGwire and Sosa vied for the record, while Mariners’ star Ken Griffey Jr. and Padres’ slugger Greg Vaughn also made their mark. Similarly, in 2001, Bonds and Sosa were joined by Alex Rodriguez and Luis Gonzalez, further emphasizing the rarity of this power surge in baseball history.
The Future of Cal Raleigh
As Raleigh continues to make headlines, his future in the league looks promising. His performance this season has not only elevated his status but has also sparked discussions about the evolution of the catcher position in baseball. Traditionally viewed as defensive stalwarts, catchers are increasingly becoming offensive powerhouses, and Raleigh is at the forefront of this transformation.
The Mariners, who have long sought to establish themselves as contenders in the American League, are now benefiting from Raleigh’s contributions. His ability to hit for power while also managing the demanding role of a catcher is a testament to his skill and dedication.
Conclusion
Cal Raleigh’s achievement of hitting 60 home runs this season is a significant milestone in both his career and the history of the Seattle Mariners. As he joins an elite group of players, his performance serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of baseball and the increasing emphasis on power hitting. With the Mariners clinching the AL West division title, Raleigh’s contributions will undoubtedly be remembered as a pivotal moment in the franchise’s history. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see what other records Raleigh may break and how he will continue to shape the future of the game.
