Cal Raleigh hit two home runs, including his 34th and 35th of the season, as the Seattle Mariners defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 6-0 on Friday afternoon at T-Mobile Park. Raleigh’s performance helped the Mariners snap the Pirates’ six-game winning streak while reinforcing his major league lead in home runs.
Additional Mariners Power and Strong Pitching Lead the Way
Randy Arozarena and Dylan Moore also contributed home runs, with Moore breaking out of a slump by hitting a two-run shot late in the game. Meanwhile, Mariners starter Bryan Woo delivered an impressive outing, pitching six scoreless innings to secure his eighth win of the season and maintain his record of pitching at least six innings in all 17 starts this year.
Raleigh Breaks Career Highs and Matches Franchise Milestones
This season, Raleigh has already surpassed his previous career high of 34 home runs, set last year. His 35th homer matched the Seattle Mariners franchise record for most home runs hit before the All-Star break, a milestone originally set by Ken Griffey Jr. in 1998. Raleigh’s first home run came in the opening inning off an error that put Julio Rodriguez on base, launching a two-run shot that traveled 433 feet at 115.2 mph—the hardest hit ball of his career.
Notable Contributions and Game Highlights
Arozarena’s solo home run in the fourth inning marked his fifth homer in five games, showing consistent offensive power. Raleigh extended the lead further in the sixth with another two-run homer to left-center field. Moore’s two-run blast came in the seventh inning against Pirates reliever Braxton Ashcraft, turning a close game into a commanding 6-0 victory.
Pitching Performances Impact the Outcome
Bryan Woo allowed only three hits, all by Pirates’ Nick Gonzales, walked two batters, and struck out eight. His durability and effectiveness on the mound have made him a valuable asset for the Mariners this season. On the other hand, Pirates starter Bailey Falter pitched 5 2/3 innings, limiting the Mariners to three hits but giving up all four runs through homers. Despite pitching well overall and not issuing any walks, Falter’s four earned runs contributed to Pittsburgh’s shutout loss and ended the Pirates’ pitching staff’s 31-inning scoreless streak against St. Louis.
Implications for Mariners and Pirates Moving Forward
With this win, the Mariners reinforced their offensive strength and pitching consistency, boosting confidence as the season progresses. Raleigh’s record-breaking home run streak highlights his emergence as a key power hitter for Seattle. The Pirates, meanwhile, face the challenge of rebuilding momentum after losing a six-game winning streak and having their notable pitching streak halted. This game sets an important tone ahead of the remaining games in the interleague series and the rest of the season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is Cal Raleigh the big dumper?
A. Raleigh got the nickname ‘Big Dumper’ for his backside from his former teammate Jarred Kelenic. Kelenic began using this name in 2020 and mentioned it on Twitter in 2021 when Raleigh joined the Mariners. Raleigh’s mother feels the nickname is not great but appreciates the fans’ support for her son.
Q. How much is Cal Raleigh paid?
A. JT Realmuto, who plays for the Phillies, signed a deal worth $115.5 million that lasts from 2021 to 2025. Cal Raleigh, from the Mariners, agreed to a $105 million contract covering the years 2025 to 2030.
Q. How much does Cal Raleigh earn?
A. He will receive a $10 million signing bonus once the commissioner approves the contract. This year, his salary will be $1 million. In 2027, he will earn $11 million, $12 million in 2028, and $23 million each year for the next three years.
Q. Is Cal Raleigh good?
A. Cal Raleigh, who plays as a catcher for the Seattle Mariners, is experiencing a great start to the season. This achievement led to him being chosen as a starter for the MLB All-Star Game in 2025. It marks his first appearance at the All-Star event, and he was voted the top catcher in the American League.