Raleigh’s Derby Win Boosts ESPN Ratings Significantly

The MLB Home Run Derby always brings a wild spectacle, but the 2025 edition turned out to be a dream come true for Seattle Mariners fans. Cal Raleigh, or “Big Dumper” as folks call him, smashed his way to victory and carved out his place in Mariners lore.

He didn’t just put on a power show—Raleigh also helped ESPN snag a bump in ratings for the annual event. There’s something about a hometown hero lighting up the stage that just brings people in.

Cal Raleigh Claims the 2025 Home Run Derby Crown

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh completely stole the spotlight during the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby. He faced off with Junior Caminero from the Tampa Bay Rays in a finale that had fans on edge.

Raleigh’s power display was just ridiculous. But what really set the night apart was his family’s involvement. His dad, Todd Raleigh, a former college baseball coach, pitched to him. Meanwhile, his 15-year-old brother, Todd Jr., squatted behind the plate as his catcher.

It was a true family moment, and honestly, it made the whole thing feel more personal—even for folks watching at home.

A Nod to Mariners’ Legendary Past

Raleigh became only the second Mariner to win the Derby, joining the legendary Ken Griffey Jr. That’s some pretty rare company. Griffey, who won the event three times and remains a Seattle icon, was right there on the field snapping photos of Raleigh’s big win.

That link between Mariners past and present brought a little extra weight to the whole night. Seattle fans (and probably a few neutrals) couldn’t help but feel a twinge of nostalgia.

Boosting Viewership with a Power-Packed Performance

Raleigh’s Derby win didn’t just electrify Seattle. ESPN pulled in an average of 5,729,000 viewers, up 5% from last year. At the peak, 6,307,000 people tuned in at 9:30 p.m. ET.

That made it one of the most-watched shows of the day, whether you were flipping through broadcast or cable. Clearly, the Derby still has that magnetism, especially when someone like Raleigh gets hot.

How Raleigh Helped ESPN Stand Out

Back in 2024, Teoscar Hernández took home the Derby crown, and 5,451,000 folks watched. Not bad, right? But Raleigh’s story—his family, his bombs, the whole vibe—just took it up a notch.

It’s hard to deny the Derby’s still a summer staple. Having a charismatic winner like Raleigh? That just seals the deal.

Cal Raleigh’s Stellar 2025 Season

At 28, Cal Raleigh’s having a monster year, and it goes way beyond his Derby fireworks. Right now, he leads MLB with 38 home runs and 82 RBIs—numbers that make pitchers sweat.

He’ll start as catcher for the American League in the All-Star Game, which says a lot about both his game and his popularity. Fans are definitely noticing.

Continuing the Mariners’ Resurgence

For Seattle, Raleigh’s Derby win and his big season are bright spots in a tough American League. The Mariners have spent years in the shadows, but they’re building something real now.

Raleigh’s leadership and knack for big moments are exactly what Seattle needs. He’s not just carrying a team—he’s giving a city hope.

The Legacy of “Big Dumper”

Cal Raleigh’s Home Run Derby win really cements his place as one of baseball’s most exciting players. His nickname, “Big Dumper,” is going to stick with Mariners fans for a long time.

He pulled off this milestone with his dad and brother right there beside him. That detail adds a genuinely heartwarming touch to the whole story.

On top of that, Raleigh’s regular-season numbers have been stellar. His 2025 season already feels like something special.

Now, as the 2025 MLB season keeps rolling, everyone’s watching Raleigh. Will he keep the Derby magic going through the rest of the year?

 
Here is the source article for this story: Dump bump: Raleigh’s Derby victory lifts ratings