HISTORIC SWING: Cal Raleigh Breaks Ken Griffey Jr.’s Record for Most Pre-All-Star Homers in Mariners History!
In a moment destined to be remembered by Seattle Mariners fans for generations, Cal Raleigh has etched his name into the annals of Major League Baseball history. With a towering blast in the bottom of the sixth inning on Tuesday night at T-Mobile Park, Raleigh not only sent the crowd into a frenzy but also broke a record held by none other than Mariners legend and Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. — the most home runs hit by a Mariner before the All-Star break.
Griffey Jr., widely regarded as one of the most iconic sluggers in baseball history, held the previous franchise record with 35 home runs before the All-Star break in 1998. That number stood untouched for over two decades, a testament to Griffey’s unmatched dominance during his prime. But now, Cal Raleigh — the 27-year-old catcher nicknamed “Big Dumper” — has set a new benchmark, belting his 36th home run of the season just days before the Midsummer Classic.
A Home Run for the Ages
The home run that shattered the record was vintage Raleigh: a high-velocity fastball on the inner half of the plate that he turned on and crushed into the right field bleachers. The moment the ball left his bat, everyone in the stadium knew it was gone. As it sailed over the fence, Raleigh rounded the bases with the calm confidence of a player who understands the magnitude of what he’s achieved — but refuses to be overwhelmed by it.
After touching home plate, Raleigh was greeted by his ecstatic teammates, who poured out of the dugout in celebration. The roar of the Seattle faithful echoed through the ballpark, their cheers a mix of admiration, nostalgia, and excitement for what lies ahead. For many, it was not just about the number, but the passing of the torch — from a Mariners icon of the past to a new face of the franchise’s future.
Who is Cal Raleigh?
Cal Raleigh has come a long way since being drafted in the third round of the 2018 MLB Draft by the Seattle Mariners. Known early on for his defensive prowess and raw power, he developed into one of the most potent switch-hitting catchers in the game. In 2022, Raleigh announced his arrival with a walk-off home run that sent the Mariners to the postseason for the first time in 21 years. That moment catapulted him into Seattle sports lore and cemented his status as a fan favorite.
Fast-forward to 2025, and Raleigh has evolved into a complete player — a leader in the clubhouse, a rock behind the plate, and a nightmare for opposing pitchers. His power stroke is effortless yet menacing, and his ability to hit from both sides of the plate makes him a rare threat in today’s game. While comparisons to legends like Griffey Jr. may seem premature to some, breaking a record of this magnitude certainly invites such discussion.
Griffey’s Legacy and the Weight of the Record
Ken Griffey Jr. wasn’t just a superstar — he was the superstar of his era. His swing was poetry in motion, his charisma was magnetic, and his impact on baseball stretched far beyond the Pacific Northwest. His 35 home runs before the break in 1998 were part of a blistering campaign that saw him finish with 56 homers and an MVP-caliber season.
To surpass Griffey is not just about numbers — it’s about stepping into a pantheon reserved for the greats. Griffey’s achievements are enshrined in Cooperstown, and his number 24 is retired at T-Mobile Park. For Cal Raleigh to now stand atop a list that includes “The Kid” is a remarkable feat that speaks volumes about his work ethic, talent, and mental toughness.
Reaction Around the League
The baseball world took immediate notice of Raleigh’s achievement. Social media exploded with tributes, highlights, and comparisons. MLB analysts hailed the moment as one of the most significant individual milestones of the 2025 season. Mariners manager Scott Servais, visibly emotional after the game, praised Raleigh’s leadership and humility.
“Cal is one of the hardest-working players I’ve ever managed,” Servais said. “He never asks for the spotlight — he just goes out there and earns it every single day. Breaking a record held by Griffey? That’s elite territory. He deserves every bit of this recognition.”
Griffey Jr. himself even chimed in, posting on social media: “Records are meant to be broken. Congrats to Cal — keep swinging, kid.” The gesture was not only classy but a symbolic passing of the torch from one Mariners great to the next.
Impact on the Mariners’ Season
Raleigh’s offensive explosion has come at a critical time for the Mariners, who are locked in a tight AL West race with the Texas Rangers and Houston Astros. His consistent power hitting has anchored the middle of the lineup and provided clutch hits in key moments. With the All-Star break looming, the Mariners sit atop the division — thanks in no small part to Raleigh’s contributions.
The energy he brings to the team has been contagious. Younger players like Julio Rodríguez and Logan Gilbert have followed his lead, and the team chemistry has never been stronger. Raleigh’s record-breaking performance isn’t just a personal milestone; it’s a symbol of this team’s belief that they’re capable of something special.
A Star Among Stars
With the All-Star Game approaching, Raleigh is now a lock to start behind the plate for the American League. He leads all catchers in home runs, RBIs, and slugging percentage, and fans across the country have taken notice. He’s no longer just a Seattle story — he’s a national star.
If the Home Run Derby were looking for a headliner, Raleigh’s name is now at the top of the list. With his smooth swing and unmatched power from both sides of the plate, he would be a fan favorite in the event. Whether he participates or not, Raleigh’s presence in Arlington for All-Star weekend will be one of the most anticipated stories of the break.
What’s Next?
As the second half of the season approaches, the question becomes: how far can Raleigh go? With 36 home runs already, the single-season Mariners home run record — also held by Griffey with 56 — suddenly feels within reach. If Raleigh stays healthy and maintains his current pace, he could make a serious run at it.
More importantly, Raleigh’s performance has the Mariners poised for a deep playoff push. With a balanced rotation, strong bullpen, and a lineup that’s clicking, Seattle has all the pieces in place. And at the heart of it all is Cal Raleigh — a homegrown star with a knack for delivering when it matters most.
Final Thoughts
Records in sports serve as markers of greatness — milestones that define eras and inspire future generations. When Ken Griffey Jr. set his pre-All-Star home run record, he did so as a transcendent talent, beloved by fans and feared by pitchers. Today, Cal Raleigh joins that rare company.
In breaking Griffey’s record, Raleigh hasn’t just made history — he’s added a new chapter to the legacy of the Seattle Mariners. And for fans who’ve waited years to see their team rise again, Raleigh’s swing is more than just power — it’s hope.
Whether this is the beginning of an MVP campaign, a record-breaking season, or simply one unforgettable summer in Seattle, one thing is certain: Cal Raleigh has arrived. And the baseball world is watching.