The weather on Saturday afternoon at Wrigley Field created perfect conditions for an offensive explosion, with the wind blowing out and temperatures soaring. The Chicago Cubs capitalized on these favorable circumstances, hitting five home runs en route to a 10-7 victory against the Seattle Mariners. Among Seattle’s contributions, catcher Cal Raleigh made headlines with a solo home run, marking his 30th of the season—a notable achievement as the Mariners have only played 75 games.
Raleigh’s impressive performance not only places him on track to potentially exceed 60 home runs this year but also highlights his exceptional standing in baseball history. He has already set the record for the most home runs by a catcher before the All-Star break. His achievement makes him the first player this season to reach the 30-homer mark, outperforming notable power hitters like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani in the race.
This season marks Raleigh’s third occasion of hitting 30 home runs, joining an elite group of catchers that includes Hall of Famers Mike Piazza, Johnny Bench, and Roy Campanella. Furthermore, Raleigh has made history as the first switch hitter to achieve 30 home runs before the All-Star break, showcasing his remarkable skill at the plate.
He also becomes the first player since 2001 to hit 30 home runs in just 75 games, a feat previously accomplished by baseball legends Barry Bonds and Luis Gonzalez. Currently, the record for home runs by a catcher in a single season is held by Salvador Perez, with 48, while the highest mark for a switch hitter is 54, set by Mickey Mantle in 1961. Raleigh could very well aim for these milestones, as the Mariners’ club record of 56 homers, achieved by Ken Griffey Jr., remains within reach.
Raleigh’s continuous success brings excitement to Mariners fans and emphasizes the great potential he has to further etch his name in baseball history this season. His journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the extraordinary talent that exists in today’s game.