Cal Raleigh matched Ken Griffey Jr.’s franchise record by hitting 35 home runs before the All-Star break during Seattle’s 6-0 win over Pittsburgh on Friday. This achievement places Raleigh alongside one of baseball’s most legendary figures, highlighting his exceptional power and consistency early in the 2025 season.
Raleigh Reflects on Griffey’s Impact and Legacy
Raleigh holds Griffey in the highest regard, recognizing the Hall of Famer’s iconic status in Mariners history. He considers Griffey a standard to aspire toward and feels honored to be mentioned in the same breath as him. Raleigh said,
“To be mentioned with that name, somebody that’s just iconic, a legend, first ballot Hall of Famer, I’m just blessed,”
adding,
“Trying to do the right thing and trying to keep it rolling. If I can try to be like that guy, it’s a good guy to look up to.”
Raleigh believes Griffey’s full potential might have been even greater if injuries had not limited him, suggesting that Griffey could have surpassed Barry Bonds’ major league home run record. Despite this, Raleigh appreciates the personal connection he has maintained with Griffey, especially during Griffey’s visits back to Seattle.
Conversations with The Kid Inspire Raleigh’s Progress
Raleigh has valued his interactions with Griffey, known affectionately as “The Kid.” These exchanges offer firsthand insight into how Griffey approached his career, contributing to Raleigh’s growth as a player. Raleigh shared,
“It’s always fun to have him around the clubhouse to just talk to him a little bit and figure out how he went about his business,”
and continued,
“So, I’ve talked to him on the phone once or twice as well. So, he’s a good one. He’s one of the best of all-time. It’s hard to beat talking to somebody like that.”
Comparing Raleigh’s Performance to Legendary Mariners Milestones
Raleigh’s strong start in 2025 has drawn comparisons to Griffey’s impressive 1998 season before the All-Star break. Mariners manager Dan Wilson, who played alongside Griffey in 1998, emphasized the remarkable consistency Raleigh has displayed so far. He remarked,
“It’s remarkable. It feels like he hits a home run every game, that’s what it feels like,”
and added,
“And I can remember feeling it as a player, that (Griffey) just felt like he hit a home run every day. Again, that’s the consistency that (Raleigh) has shown. It hasn’t been a streak where he has hit a bunch of home runs in a short amount of time. It’s been kind of 10 per month.”
Breaking down Raleigh’s monthly home run count further, he hit nine in April, 12 in May, and 11 in June, demonstrating steady power. Griffey’s numbers were slightly variable but comparable, with 10 home runs in April, eight in May, and 14 in June.
Raleigh Delivers on Contract Expectations with Career Bests
Now 28 years old and entering his fourth full major league season, Raleigh has exceeded expectations set by his six-year, $105 million contract extension signed before the 2025 campaign. Not only is he on pace to surpass his career best in home runs, but he is also on track to achieve personal bests in batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage.
Raleigh credits his improved performance to his continued development and learning how to balance power with patience.
“I have the ability to drive the ball out of the ballpark,”
he said.
“I mean, it’s part of my game and I’m a strong guy. It’s learning how to hone it in and take your hits when maybe you’re not getting those pitches in the heart of the plate.”
Leadership Beyond the Numbers
Raleigh’s offensive accomplishments are complemented by his leadership role within the Mariners clubhouse. His ability to consistently deliver results has solidified his place as a team leader. Raleigh expressed,
“Want to make sure I’m doing everything I can every single day to earn that paycheck and earn what they gave me,”
emphasizing,
“But it’s a lot more than just that. It’s being a leader, doing things in the clubhouse and making sure you’re ready to go every single day.”
Looking Ahead to the Home Run Derby and Beyond
Raleigh is set to participate in the upcoming Home Run Derby, a stage where his power hitting will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. His run so far in 2025 not only cements his status as one of the premier power hitters in the league but also signals that he could continue to etch his name into Mariners history. As the season progresses, Raleigh’s performance will remain a focal point for Seattle, who hopes his contributions will lead to greater team success.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is Cal Raleigh the big dumper?
A. Raleigh got the nickname “Big Dumper” because of his backside. Former teammate Jarred Kelenic started calling him that in 2020. Kelenic even tweeted it in 2021 when Raleigh joined the Mariners. Raleigh’s mom isn’t fond of the name but values the fans’ backing of her son.
Q. How much is Cal Raleigh paid?
A. JT Realmuto from the Phillies secured a deal worth $115.5 million from 2021 to 2025. Cal Raleigh of the Mariners signed a $105 million contract covering 2025 to 2030.
Q. How much does Cal Raleigh earn?
A. When the commissioner’s office approves the contract, he receives a signing bonus of $10 million. His salary is $1 million this year, $11 million in 2027, and $12 million in 2028. For the next three years, he will earn $23 million each season.
Q. Is Cal Raleigh good?
A. Cal Raleigh, the catcher for the Seattle Mariners, is celebrating a great beginning to the season. On Wednesday, he was chosen as a starter for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game. This is his first time getting selected for the All-Star event, and he was voted the top catcher in the American League.