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Cal Raleigh Sets Catcher Home Run Record Before All-Star Break

6/21/2025

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Summary

Raleigh Breaks Record

Cal Raleigh etched his name in baseball history by smashing his 29th home run, breaking Johnny Bench's record for the most homers by a catcher before the All-Star break. Achieving this milestone in just 73 games, Raleigh played a pivotal role in the Mariners' 9-4 triumph over the Chicago Cubs, alongside teammate Mitch Garver.

Summary

Mariners Rally Victory

In a thrilling matchup, the Mariners rallied from a rocky beginning as pitcher George Kirby surrendered three runs. Cal Raleigh dazzled with two home runs, boosting his season total to 29, while Mitch Garver's clutch game-tying homer kept the excitement alive. Together, they propelled the Mariners to a hard-fought victory.

History

Historical Context

Johnny Bench set a record with 28 home runs before the All-Star break in 1975, highlighting the catcher's offensive potential in Major League Baseball. In 2023, Cal Raleigh surpassed this milestone with 29 home runs in just 73 games, reflecting a shift towards power-hitting among catchers. This evolution may inspire future players to prioritize offensive skills, reshaping the role in the sport.

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Raleigh Breaks Record

Cal Raleigh etched his name in baseball history by smashing his 29th home run, breaking Johnny Bench's record for the most homers by a catcher before the All-Star break. Achieving this milestone in just 73 games, Raleigh played a pivotal role in the Mariners' 9-4 triumph over the Chicago Cubs, alongside teammate Mitch Garver.

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