Cal Raleigh Makes History with 50th Home Run - A Record for MLB Catchers

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh made history on August 25, 2025, by hitting his 50th home run of the season during a home game against the San Diego Padres. This milestone not only sets a new benchmark for catchers but also places Raleigh in the esteemed company of baseball legends Mickey Mantle and Ken Griffey Jr.

Raleigh's first-inning solo shot off Padres pitcher JP Sears at T-Mobile Park marked him as the first primary catcher in Major League Baseball history to reach 50 home runs in a single season. Additionally, he joins Hall of Famer Mickey Mantle as the only switch-hitters to achieve this feat and becomes the second Mariners player, after Ken Griffey Jr., to hit 50 home runs in a season. The Mariners secured a 9-6 victory in the game.

At 28 years old, Raleigh has shown a steady progression in his power-hitting capabilities. He hit 27 home runs in 2022, 30 in 2023, and 34 in 2024. His 2025 season has been particularly remarkable, featuring his first All-Star selection and a victory in the All-Star Home Run Derby, where he became the first switch-hitter and first catcher to win the event. Earlier this year, Raleigh signed a six-year, $105 million contract extension with the Mariners.

Raleigh's 50th home run also surpassed Salvador Perez's previous record of 48 home runs in a season by a primary catcher, set in 2021. He has recorded nine multi-home run games this season, surpassing Mickey Mantle's record of eight multi-home run games by a switch-hitter in a single season. Additionally, Raleigh is the first player to hit at least 20 home runs from both sides of the plate in a single season.

In the game against the Padres, Raleigh went 1-for-4 with a walk, hitting his milestone home run in the first inning. Teammate Jorge Polanco contributed significantly, going 3-for-4 with a double, a home run, and four RBIs. Pitcher Bryce Miller earned the win, allowing four runs over five innings. The Padres' offense included home runs from Gavin Sheets, Jake Cronenworth, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Ramon Laureano, but their five-game winning streak was halted with this loss.

Raleigh's achievement serves as an inspiration for young athletes, especially catchers and switch-hitters, demonstrating that dedication and hard work can lead to record-breaking success. This milestone has energized the Mariners' fan base, potentially increasing attendance and viewership as the team contends for a playoff spot. As a switch-hitter and catcher, Raleigh's success highlights the evolving dynamics of player versatility and the increasing power potential in traditionally defense-focused positions.

Cal Raleigh's historic 50th home run not only cements his place in MLB history but also signifies a shift in the traditional roles and expectations of catchers and switch-hitters in the sport. As the Mariners continue their season, Raleigh's performance will undoubtedly be a focal point for fans and analysts alike.