The 2024 Home Run Derby at Truist Park in Atlanta turned out to be one for the history books. Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh smashed barriers, becoming the first catcher ever to win the Home Run Derby title.
With 54 home runs across the competition, Raleigh locked in his place in Major League Baseball lore. He edged out Junior Caminero 18-15 in a tense final round that had everyone on the edge of their seats.
Raleigh’s big swings weren’t the only thing grabbing attention. His win felt deeply emotional and set new records, making this a night Mariners fans—and honestly, most baseball fans—won’t forget anytime soon.
Cal Raleigh’s Road to Victory
Raleigh’s Derby performance was as gripping as it was historic. His journey started with a dramatic first-round tiebreaker against Brent Rooker, where he advanced by less than an inch—talk about precision and power.
The semifinal round brought more drama as Raleigh faced Oneil Cruz, who launched a jaw-dropping 513-foot home run. That’s one of the longest in Derby history, and it looked like Cruz might steal the show.
But Raleigh kept his cool and stayed consistent, which gave him the edge. That set up a final clash with Junior Caminero.
Family Ties and Emotional Weight
Raleigh’s victory had a real family vibe. His dad pitched to him during the contest, and his brother caught for him.
Seeing the Raleigh family share that moment reminded everyone that baseball, for all its spectacle, is still about relationships and heart. Sometimes, it’s the little things that stick with you.
Breaking Records and Joining Elite Company
Raleigh’s win made history in several ways. He became the first favorite to take the Derby since Bryce Harper in 2018.
With this victory, Raleigh joined Ken Griffey Jr. as the only Mariners to win the Home Run Derby. That ties the Mariners with the Yankees for the most Derby wins by any franchise—four each.
A Record Season in Progress
Backing up Raleigh’s Derby win, he’s already hit 38 home runs before the All-Star break. That’s more than any previous Derby champion at this point in a season.
His bat’s been on fire in 2024, and honestly, it doesn’t look like he’s slowing down. With numbers like these, Raleigh’s not just making headlines—he’s building a legacy.
A Day of Career Highs
The Home Run Derby wasn’t even the only highlight for Cal Raleigh that night. Earlier in the day, he got named to Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
That’s a huge honor and really cements Raleigh as one of baseball’s elite. Team USA’s going to need his bat—and his glove—on the international stage.
Other Highlights from the Derby
This year’s Derby had its share of wild moments. A young fan made headlines by robbing Caminero of a home run—seriously, the kid’s got skills. That play drew just as much applause as the hitters themselves.
Jazz Chisholm Jr. made a bit of history too, though maybe not the kind he wanted. He posted the lowest score in the clock era of the Derby. There’s always a surprise or two, and 2024’s event definitely delivered.
Quick Hits from Across the Sports World
The night might’ve belonged to Major League Baseball, but other sports had their moments too. In NFL news, New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson signed a massive four-year, $130 million contract extension.
With $90 million guaranteed, Wilson now stands among the league’s highest-paid receivers. That’s a huge leap for a player just three seasons into his career.
The Jets still have some big extension decisions ahead, especially for 2022 draft stars Sauce Gardner and Jermaine Johnson II. Feels like the next few months could get interesting.
NBA Summer Storylines
In NBA circles, Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George just had knee surgery. Now, everyone’s wondering if he’ll be ready for the season.
He’s supposed to get checked out again before training camp. Fans and analysts can’t help but speculate about what’s next.
On a brighter note, rookie VJ Edgecombe is turning heads with his Summer League play. There’s a bit of hope in the air for his team’s future.
This week in sports brought some wild moments, from Cal Raleigh’s long balls to the drama of big contracts. Raleigh’s Home Run Derby win wasn’t just about stats—it really captured the heart of baseball.
Mariners fans, honestly, have another reason to dream about 2024. Maybe this is finally their year?
Here is the source article for this story: Mariners’ Cal Raleigh first catcher to win Home Run Derby; Jets sign Garrett Wilson to $130M extension
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