Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh has quickly risen to prominence this season by hitting 38 home runs before the All-Star Break, an accomplishment previously unmatched except by Barry Bonds. This milestone, reached during his 94th game, puts Raleigh alongside Bonds as the only players to reach such a total so early in the year.
Raleigh’s surge has been a key factor in the Mariners’ pursuit of a wild card spot, energizing fans and teammates alike. With just two games remaining before the break, Raleigh still has the opportunity to tie or even exceed Bonds’ first-half record of 39 home runs, set in Bonds’ legendary 2001 season.
Exclusive Company: Matching Barry Bonds’ First-Half Power
Raleigh’s milestone places him in elite company. Bonds’ 39 homers in the first half of 2001 came during a campaign that led Bonds to four straight MVP awards, highlighting the historic nature of that achievement. Raleigh’s power surge this season invites comparisons to Bonds’ dominance, as he continues to impress against American League pitching.
Despite trailing Aaron Judge in the AL MVP race, Raleigh’s recent performances strengthen his candidacy. His ability to maintain power in a typically demanding catcher’s position underscores the uniqueness of his achievement and raises expectations for a memorable second half.
Contract Backed by Performance and Consistency
Cal Raleigh’s season is also remarkable given the context of his recent contract, a six-year, $105 million deal signed before the current campaign. The Mariners’ investment has paid off handsomely, with Raleigh posting a .264/.377/.645 slash line alongside his 38 homers. This year’s performance earned him an All-Star spot and elevated status as a serious AL MVP contender.
Raleigh has demonstrated consistent power, having hit at least 30 home runs in the past three seasons, including 27 in 2022. His ability to deliver sustained offensive production has made him the Mariners’ leading home run hitter and a pivotal figure in their lineup.
Historical Context Among Catchers and Future Prospects
Among catchers, Raleigh’s current home run total ranks near the top historically. The single-season home run record for catchers is held by Salvador Perez with 48 homers in 2021. Raleigh’s power numbers suggest he might challenge that record if he maintains his pace through the remainder of the season.
Barry Bonds’ historic 2001 season, which concluded with 73 home runs, remains a benchmark for power hitting. Raleigh’s first-half performance has already sparked excitement among baseball fans who are eager to see if he can sustain this level and possibly rewrite records in catcher history.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is Cal Raleigh the Big Dumper?
A. On the broadcast, Michael Kay explained that they call him “Big Dumper” due to his notably large backside.
Q. How much is Cal Raleigh paid?
A. JT Realmuto, playing for the Phillies, has a contract worth $115.5 million covering the years 2021 to 2025. Cal Raleigh, with the Mariners, is set to earn $105 million from 2025 to 2030.
Q. Is Cal Raleigh any good?
A. Before this season, Raleigh was already one of the top catchers and underrated players in baseball. This year, he has improved even more. His batting average is .281, with an on-base percentage of .386 and a slugging percentage of .667. He also leads MLB with 69 RBIs and has started in all but two of the Mariners’ first 78 games.
Q. How much does Cal Raleigh make?
A. Because of the agreement, he is expected to get a $10 million signing bonus. His salary in 2025 will decrease to $1 million. In 2026 and 2027, Raleigh will earn $11 million and $12 million, respectively.