Cal Raleigh Sets HR Career High on July 4 with Epic Blast

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh made some serious noise on July 4th, blasting his way into the baseball history books. He crushed his 34th and 35th home runs of the season, not only surpassing his own best but tying Ken Griffey Jr.’s franchise record for most home runs before the All-Star break.

That’s the kind of power show that gets Seattle buzzing. Suddenly, Raleigh’s the talk of the league and one of MLB’s brightest stars in 2025.

Cal Raleigh’s Record-Breaking Power Surge

This year, Raleigh has taken his game to wild new heights. He’s become the heart of the Mariners’ offense, and with 35 home runs before midseason, he’s on pace for a staggering 64.

That would break Aaron Judge’s American League single-season record of 62 homers set in 2022. The season’s still got a long way to go, but Raleigh’s already got fans and analysts talking legacy.

Home Run Breakdown: Power, Efficiency, and Consistency

Home run number 34 was no ordinary shot—it was a 433-foot rocket that left his bat at 115.2 mph, the hardest he’s ever hit a ball. Not long after, he sent a 381-foot blast into the bullpen, just for good measure.

Those swings showed off his ridiculous power and his knack for coming through when it matters most. The stats back it up: Raleigh leads MLB in home runs this season, just edging out Judge.

He’s doing things catchers usually don’t. He’s also set a Mariners record for right-handed home runs, hitting 14 from that side already.

It’s no stretch to say he’s become a huge part of why the Mariners are in the hunt this year.

From Switch-Hitting Catcher to Franchise Cornerstone

What sets Raleigh apart? He’s a switch-hitting catcher, which is rare enough, but he’s also a true threat at the plate. Most catchers focus on defense, but Raleigh’s made himself just as valuable with the bat.

His ability to hit from both sides of the plate gives pitchers headaches. That’s a tough matchup for anyone.

Drawing Comparisons to Mariners Legends

It’s only natural that folks are comparing Raleigh’s season to Mariners legends like Ken Griffey Jr., Ichiro Suzuki, and Edgar Martinez. Those guys left a mark on Seattle baseball that’s tough to match.

Raleigh’s got a real admiration for Griffey, and it goes both ways. Griffey has even mentored Raleigh during this run, sharing advice and encouragement when it counts.

Fans and coaches can’t help but see echoes of Griffey in Raleigh’s home runs. Mariners coach Dan Wilson, who played with Griffey, says Raleigh’s blasts are just as jaw-dropping as anything “The Kid” did back in the day.

The MVP Race: Cal Raleigh vs. Aaron Judge

With his monster first half, Raleigh’s right at the front of the 2025 American League MVP conversation. People see it as a head-to-head with Judge—a classic power showdown, but with very different styles.

Judge brings the highlight-reel catches and that towering presence. Raleigh’s blending elite defense with a bat that just won’t quit.

What’s Next for Cal Raleigh? The Home Run Derby

Coming up at the All-Star break, Raleigh’s set to compete in the Home Run Derby. His dad will be pitching to him, which adds a fun twist.

Fans are curious if that family connection gives him an edge or maybe just makes it more memorable. Either way, Raleigh’s got momentum, and the Derby could be another wild chapter in his 2025 season.

Conclusion: Cementing His Legacy in Seattle

Cal Raleigh’s July 4th heroics turned heads all over Seattle. He’s now the guy who broke Griffey’s pre-All-Star break home run record.

That’s not something you see every day. Raleigh’s not slowing down, either.

People are already comparing him to Mariners legends. I mean, could he really be in the running for American League MVP?

Mariners fans have every reason to be excited. It honestly feels like we’re watching the next franchise great take shape, right in front of us.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Raleigh matches career high in HRs — on July 4! — with hardest-hit ball of career