News Summary
Cal Raleigh has become the first catcher to win the MLB Home Run Derby, defeating Junior Caminero in a thrilling final round. With a total of 38 home runs this season, Raleigh also made history as the second member of the Seattle Mariners to claim this title. His family support played a crucial role in his victory, marking a significant moment in his career and for the Mariners organization. The 2025 derby was a showcase of spectacular performances and fan engagement, setting the stage for Raleigh’s burgeoning status in Major League Baseball.
Seattle – Cal Raleigh has made history by winning the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby, defeating Junior Caminero in an exciting final round. This victory marks Raleigh as the first catcher ever to win the prestigious Home Run Derby, which has been held annually since 1985. With his performance, Raleigh solidified his status as a leading figure in Major League Baseball this season, leading the league with a remarkable total of 38 home runs. He is also the second member of the Seattle Mariners to win the derby, joining legendary player Ken Griffey Jr.
In the decisive final round, Raleigh outperformed Caminero, hitting 18 home runs compared to Caminero’s 15. Before reaching the finals, Raleigh faced a tense semifinal round against Oneil Cruz. The competition in the initial round was fierce as well, with Raleigh tying Brent Rooker, each hitting 17 home runs. Raleigh advanced to the next round because his longest home run traveled an impressive 470.62 feet, narrowly surpassing Rooker’s 470.54 feet.
During the first round, Raleigh showcased his versatility by switching from a left-handed to a right-handed batter stance. He began by hitting eight home runs left-handed and followed that up with nine right-handed homers, demonstrating his adaptability and skill. Raleigh’s total of 38 home runs before the All-Star break ranks as the second-highest number ever recorded at this juncture in a season.
This remarkable performance not only broke Raleigh’s previous career-high of 34 home runs set in the 2024 season but has also placed him in consideration for the American League Most Valuable Player award. In addition to his home runs, Raleigh has generated 4.8 wins above replacement, the second-highest figure in the league, just behind Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees. Raleigh is also hitting a career-high .259 this season and leads the Mariners in on-base plus slugging percentage at 1.011. To further his exceptional season, he has also stolen a career-high 10 bases and has scored 65 runs.
Behind Raleigh’s success was his family, particularly his 15-year-old brother Todd Raleigh Jr., who caught for him during the derby and provided unwavering support. Raleigh credited his family for helping him focus amid the excitement and pressure of the event. The emotional support from his father, Todd Raleigh, who pitched to him throughout the derby, played a significant role in his achievement, filling the event with family pride and connection.
The Home Run Derby also saw moments of fan engagement, including an eye-catching play by a young fan, Sam Musterer, who managed to rob a home run from Junior Caminero during the final round. With Raleigh’s win, the Seattle Mariners now share the same number of Home Run Derby victories as the New York Yankees, each team boasting four titles.
As the baseball world reflects on this year’s derby, Raleigh’s victory has ignited discussions regarding the future of MLB broadcasts, specifically related to the Home Run Derby and the evolving interests of the audience. Notably, Oneil Cruz’s performance in the first round included the event’s longest home run at an astounding 513 feet, further demonstrating the power and thrill present in this year’s competition.
Cal Raleigh’s achievement not only represents a personal milestone but also emphasizes the growing impact of catchers in the game, an area traditionally dominated by other positions. His journey through the Home Run Derby and strong showing this season highlight the exciting prospects for both his career and the Seattle Mariners. Raleigh’s experience has been described as a dream come true for the dedicated baseball player, culminating in a historic moment that will be remembered for years to come.
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Additional Resources
- The New York Times: MLB Home Run Derby 2025 Live Updates
- ESPN: Cal Raleigh First Catcher to Win Home Run Derby
- MLB: Cal Raleigh Wins 2025 Home Run Derby
- Fox Sports: Live Updates from Home Run Derby
- Wikipedia: Home Run Derby
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
