Cal Raleigh Claims 2025 MLB Home Run Derby Crown with Family Support

The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby wasn’t just another night at the ballpark. Cal Raleigh, Seattle Mariners catcher, turned it into pure spectacle—fireworks, drama, and a dash of history all rolled into one.

He became the first catcher and first switch hitter to ever snag the title. Truist Park buzzed as Raleigh’s performance drew in fans everywhere, mixing jaw-dropping power with a heartfelt family story.

Let’s dig into the highlights of Raleigh’s wild run and what it might mean for baseball’s future. There’s a lot to take in, honestly.

Breaking Barriers: A Catcher and Switch Hitter Makes History

In Atlanta, Cal Raleigh did something nobody had done before. He broke through as the first catcher and switch hitter to win the Home Run Derby.

He came in on a tear—38 homers before the All-Star Break, just shy of Barry Bonds’ legendary 39. That blend of power and versatility? It made him a real threat.

A Childhood Dream Fulfilled

For Raleigh, this wasn’t just about a trophy. It was the dream he’d chased since he was a kid.

Old footage resurfaced of eight-year-old Raleigh boldly calling his shot as a future Derby champ. Each swing felt like a nod to every young fan out there hoping for their own moment.

Round-by-Round Dominance: How Raleigh Won It All

This Derby wasn’t a cakewalk. Raleigh had to fight through every round, facing down some of the game’s brightest young stars.

He kept his cool, showing he could handle the spotlight and the pressure.

A Nail-Biting First Round

The first round? Pure nerves. Raleigh barely squeaked by Brent Rooker in a tiebreaker.

They both put on a power show, but Raleigh’s longest homer edged him ahead—by less than an inch. That set the tone for the rest of the night.

Semifinal Brilliance

Next, Raleigh squared off with Oneil Cruz from the Pirates. He blasted 19 home runs to Cruz’s 13.

Under the Truist Park lights, Raleigh looked locked in and booked his spot in the final.

The Grand Finale

The last round? It was a showdown with Junior Caminero from the Rays. Raleigh unleashed 18 homers, sealing his win.

He finished the Derby with 54 total bombs. The place went wild as he celebrated with his family right there on stage.

A Family Affair at Home Plate

This Derby had a special twist—family. Raleigh’s dad, Todd, pitched to him all night, while his younger brother caught the warm-ups.

That family vibe brought a whole new layer to the event. It just felt different, more personal.

Raleigh credits his dad for shaping him as both a catcher and a switch hitter. After the win, he talked about what it meant for his family and the baseball legacy they’ve built together.

What Raleigh’s Victory Means For Baseball

Raleigh’s win? It’s bigger than just one night. He’s opened doors for catchers, switch hitters, and anyone dreaming of breaking the mold.

He joins Ken Griffey Jr. as the only Mariners to win the Derby. For Seattle, that’s a pretty big deal—and maybe a sign of even brighter days ahead with Raleigh leading the way.

The Prizes and the Legacy

Beyond the glory, Raleigh walked away with a collection of coveted trophies to mark his victory. Alongside the $1 million prize that comes with the Home Run Derby title, Raleigh was honored with a commemorative chain and a title belt.

He passed the belt on to his younger brother as a token of their unforgettable journey together in Atlanta.

Now, as the baseball world turns to the second half of the 2025 season, there’s a buzz in the air. Cal Raleigh’s Home Run Derby win feels like one of those moments you just know will stick around in baseball lore.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Flanked by his family, Mariners’ Cal Raleigh wins 2025 MLB Home Run Derby