Home / Sports / Catcher Cal Raleigh's Grit and Grind Fuel Mariners' Playoff Push
Catcher Cal Raleigh's Grit and Grind Fuel Mariners' Playoff Push
11 Oct
Summary
- Cal Raleigh sets Mariners' single-season home run record
- Raleigh becomes first catcher to win Home Run Derby
- Raleigh plays through injuries, earns Platinum Glove award

As the Mariners prepare for a win-or-go-home Game 5 of the American League Divisional Series against the Detroit Tigers on October 11, 2025, their star catcher Cal Raleigh has emerged as a bona fide superstar. Earlier this year, Raleigh set a new Mariners single-season home run record, surpassing the legendary Ken Griffey Jr. He also broke Mickey Mantle's mark for most homers by a switch-hitter and set a new bar for home runs by a catcher, passing Salvador Perez's 2021 total.
Raleigh's offensive exploits have been matched by his grit and determination. Throughout the season, he has played through numerous injuries, from a broken tooth to a broken thumb and torn ligament. Yet, he still managed to win a Platinum Glove, the sport's highest defensive honor. Raleigh's pre-game routine is a testament to his work ethic, as he arrives at the park over six hours early to prepare both mentally and physically.




