Cal Raleigh Conquers 40 Home Runs: A Historic Milestone
In a season full of successes, Cal Raleigh has achieved a new milestone. On Saturday night, he hit his 40th home run, sending the ball deep into the right field of Angel Stadium. This home run is not only a personal milestone, but it also propelled the Mariners to a valuable victory. Raleigh, the seventh catcher in the history of Major League Baseball to reach this figure, has had an impressive season. His performance, which includes the victory in the Home Run Derby, has solidified him as a key figure for the Mariners.Raleigh’s home run, a 416-foot hit with an exit velocity of 113.5 mph, put the Mariners ahead 3-2 in the sixth inning. The team added three more runs in that inning, securing control of the game and their second win in three games in Anaheim. This home run is not only significant for Raleigh, but also for the team. “I’m sure it feels great to reach 40,” said manager Dan Wilson. “I’m sure he wants to get to 41 as soon as possible because he knows it helps us win games.” Raleigh joins a select group of hitters who have hit 40 or more home runs while primarily playing as catchers. This list includes names like Johnny Bench, Mike Piazza, Roy Campanella, Todd Hundley, and Javy Lopez. With this achievement, Raleigh becomes the fifth player in Mariners history to reach 40 home runs in a season, joining legends like Ken Griffey Jr., Alex Rodriguez, Nelson Cruz, and Jay Buhner. Additionally, Raleigh tied Griffey (1998) for the most home runs in Seattle history through the first 105 games of a season. In a day when Raleigh’s candidacy for the American League MVP received an indirect boost, due to Aaron Judge’s injury, Raleigh’s performance remains notable. Despite a slight dip in July, Raleigh’s approach at the plate has shown recent improvements, according to the manager.It’s a great milestone and I’m very grateful for it, it’s a special moment. I’m glad we won today, and someday I’ll look back and it will be great.
Cal Raleigh
