Mariners‘ Cal Raleigh Makes History with 50th Home Run, Shattering Catcher Record
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SEATTLE, WA – August 25, 2025 – In a historic night at T-Mobile Park, Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh blasted his 50th home run of the season, setting a new Major League Baseball record for home runs by a catcher. The monumental hit came in the ninth inning against a 3-2 fastball from San Diego Padres pitcher JP Sears, soaring 419 feet into the left-field stands.
A Season for the Record Books
raleigh’s achievement surpasses the previous record of 48 home runs held by Salvador Perez, achieved in 2021 while playing for the kansas City Royals. The Mariners went on to defeat the Padres 9-6, fueled by Raleigh’s power and moving to within one game of the Houston Astros for the lead in the American League West.
Beyond the catcher record, Raleigh has etched his name into baseball lore as only the second switch-hitter in MLB history to reach 50 home runs in a single season, joining the legendary Mickey Mantle. He is also the first player *ever* to hit at least 20 home runs from both the left and right sides of the plate in a single campaign – a testament to his remarkable versatility and power.
Elite Company and Team Legacy
Raleigh joins an exclusive club of players to reach the 50-homer plateau in August, a feat accomplished by only seven other players in MLB history. He becomes the second player in Mariners franchise history to achieve 50 home runs in a season,following Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr., who accomplished the feat twice, in 1997 (56 home runs) and 1998 (56 home runs).
The Mariners’ victory was a team effort, but Raleigh’s performance was undeniably the centerpiece. He has been on a tear recently, hitting three home runs in his last two games, including numbers 48 and 49 during Sunday’s 11-4 win against the Oakland Athletics.
“Its surreal,” Raleigh said after the game,
“To be in the same conversation as guys like Mickey Mantle and Junior… it’s something I’ll cherish forever. But more importantly, we got a win tonight, and we’re right there in the division race.”
Statistical Breakdown
| Player | Team (Year of Record) | Home Runs (Catcher Record) |
|---|---|---|
| Cal Raleigh | Seattle Mariners (2025) | 50 |
| Salvador Perez | Kansas City Royals (2021) | 48 |
| Ken Griffey Jr. | Seattle Mariners (1997 & 1998) | 56 |
| Mickey Mantle | New York Yankees (1961) | 54 |
Raleigh’s emergence as one of baseball’s premier power hitters has been a key factor in the Mariners’ resurgence this season. His ability to contribute offensively from both sides of the plate makes him a particularly dangerous threat to opposing pitchers. The Mariners (71-61) continue their push for a playoff berth, with Raleigh leading the charge.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
