Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 15, 2024 6:56 pm GMT
In a season defined by highs and lows, Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh is making history, setting records while showcasing his talent. As the Mariners prepare to conclude their season, Raleigh, recently crowned the team’s Player of the Year, is just one home run away from a remarkable accolade that could place him among the greatest catchers of all time. With the season winding down, fans are eager to witness whether he can break the single-season record for home runs hit by a catcher.
Raleigh’s Historic Season
Cal Raleigh’s remarkable journey this season has already included hitting 32 home runs, a new franchise record for any catcher. His performance has not only broken his previous record of 30 homers established in 2023, but also solidified his place among Major League Baseball’s elite. This accomplishment gains further significance when considering that Raleigh has achieved this stellar performance over just four seasons.
With his recent solo home run against the Oakland Athletics, Raleigh’s career total has climbed to 91 homers, ranking him second among catchers for the most home runs in their first four seasons. The record is currently held by Hall of Famer Mike Piazza, who hit 92, leaving Raleigh on the verge of making history.
A Season of Achievements
The accolades for Raleigh don’t stop there. He made headlines by setting the franchise record for most single-season runs batted in (RBIs) as a catcher, showcasing his value both behind the plate and at the plate. His impressive performance has placed him in strong consideration for both the Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards this season.
His achievements can be summarized as follows:
- 32 home runs – a new franchise record for catchers.
- 91 career home runs through four seasons – second-highest for a catcher.
- Franchise record for single-season RBIs by a catcher.
- League leader in defensive runs saved.
- High performance in caught stealing metrics.
Player Recognition
Before the Mariners faced the Athletics, Raleigh’s efforts were recognized as he was awarded the Player of the Year title by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA). This recognition not only reflects his personal accomplishments but also highlights his contribution to the team during a challenging season.
“I’m really honored to receive this award,” Raleigh said after being named Player of the Year. “It’s been a great season, and I couldn’t have done it without my teammates. We’ve faced a lot of challenges this year, but I’m proud of how we’ve kept fighting.”
Raleigh’s enthusiasm and dedication resonate with fans and players alike, reflecting the spirit of the Mariners as they move forward.
A Look Ahead
While the Mariners have been eliminated from playoff contention, Raleigh’s performance gives fans hope for the future. The young catcher is poised to be a cornerstone for the team as they aim to bounce back in the coming years. His leadership on the field and ability to perform under pressure could be vital in helping the team reach postseason play.
“The future looks bright with players like Cal with us,” said Mariners manager Dan Wilson after the team’s last game. “He’s a special player and his work ethic is unmatched. We look forward to seeing what he can accomplish next season.”
The Final Games
As the Mariners wrap up their season, there are still two games left against the Athletics. Fans are eager to see if Raleigh can hit one more home run to tie or possibly break Piazza’s record. Regardless of the outcome, Cal Raleigh’s journey this season has been one for the books.
In the world of baseball, every season brings its own set of challenges and triumphs. While Raleigh may not see playoff action this year, his time in the spotlight has entered a new realm, and his continued success could lead Seattle back to the postseason in 2025.
Cal Raleigh has done some amazing things this season, making it a special time for Mariners fans. His hard work and dedication show that he has a bright future ahead. Everyone is excited to see what he will achieve next in his career!
