CHICAGO — In a remarkable display of talent, Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh has set a new record for home runs by a catcher before the All-Star break. He hit his 28th and 29th home runs during a 9-4 win against the Chicago Cubs.
Raleigh made history in the seventh inning, surpassing the previous record held by Hall of Famer Johnny Bench since 1970. He hit a long ball to the left-field bleachers, marking a significant achievement for both him and the sport.
“Being mentioned alongside one of the greatest catchers ever is truly special,” Raleigh expressed. “I’m just really thankful. He was an incredible player, and I’m very happy about this milestone.”
Raleigh accomplished this feat in just 73 games, breaking Bench’s record set in 87 games, and he did so with 22 games left before the All-Star festivities. The overall record for home runs in a single season is held by Barry Bonds, with 39 in 2001.
Earlier in the game, Raleigh hit his first home run just over the basket, showcasing his impressive power. The 28-year-old finished the night with three hits and helped drive in three runs, bringing his season total to an impressive 63.
Johnny Bench, a legendary figure in baseball, was a 14-time All-Star during his 17 years with the Cincinnati Reds. He won the National League MVP award at just 22 years old and hit a remarkable 45 home runs while driving in 148 runs in 1970.
In a thrilling game, Seattle’s Mitch Garver also made an impact, hitting two home runs and driving in five runs. This performance stole some of the focus from the Cubs’ day, which included the return of Sammy Sosa to Wrigley Field after more than 20 years.
Notably, Raleigh and Garver became the first primary catchers on a team to both hit two home runs in the same game since Joe Ferguson and Steve Yeager did for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1979 against Houston. It’s a testament to their extraordinary abilities and brings a sense of excitement to baseball fans everywhere.
