Cal Raleigh Shatters Catcher Home Run Record with 49th Blast

Cal Raleigh has made history in Major League Baseball, becoming the first catcher to hit 49 home runs in a single season. The milestone was achieved during a game against the Oakland Athletics at T-Mobile Park in Seattle on August 24, 2025. Raleigh, affectionately known as “Big Dumper” among Mariners fans, surpassed the previous record of 48 home runs set by Salvador Perez of the Kansas City Royals in 2021.

Raleigh’s remarkable achievement came during an electrifying game where he hit two home runs in as many at-bats. He launched his first home run in the bottom of the first inning off Athletics pitcher Jacob Lopez, then followed up with another homer on the very first pitch he faced in the second inning. The crowd erupted as the ball sailed over the left-field fence, solidifying Raleigh’s place in MLB history.

Fans at T-Mobile Park celebrated the moment, recognizing the significance of Raleigh’s accomplishment. Teammates joined in the jubilation as Raleigh paraded around the dugout with the Mariners’ trident, a symbol awarded to players who hit home runs. His performance on Sunday not only extended his home run lead—he was ahead of Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber by two homers—but also highlighted his exceptional season.

Entering the game, Raleigh led the league with 47 home runs. His achievement is even more impressive considering that he is the first primary catcher to win the Home Run Derby, a title he secured in July. This season, he has maintained a consistent and powerful swing, making him a vital asset to the Mariners as they push for a postseason berth.

The Mariners are currently in a competitive race for the American League West title, sitting 2.5 games behind the Houston Astros. Additionally, they hold the last wild card position in the American League, with the Royals trailing closely behind. As the regular season progresses, Raleigh’s record-setting performance could prove crucial for Seattle’s aspirations of clinching a World Series title.

Raleigh’s journey to breaking the record is noteworthy, as he has surpassed legendary figures in the game. Salvador Perez’s 48 home runs in the 2021 season had previously tied him with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. for the league lead that year, while Johnny Bench’s long-standing record of 45 home runs was eclipsed by Perez. Raleigh’s accomplishment marks a new era for catchers, showcasing the evolving role of the position in modern baseball.

As the Mariners gear up for the final stretch of the season, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how many more home runs Raleigh can add to his record. The excitement surrounding his performance encapsulates the thrill of baseball and the potential for historic achievements in the sport.