Mariners' Cal Raleigh Ties Ken Griffey Jr. Home Run Record Before All-Star Break

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh has tied Ken Griffey Jr.'s franchise record by hitting 35 home runs before the All-Star break in the 2025 season, leading all of Major League Baseball in home runs. Raleigh's power surge includes a 115.2 mph exit velocity homer, the hardest-hit ball of his career, and his consistent home run pace has drawn comparisons to Griffey's legendary 1998 season. Raleigh admires Griffey's iconic status and receives advice from the Hall of Famer, emphasizing Griffey's resilience despite injuries. Uniquely, Raleigh is achieving this feat as a primary catcher, a position not typically known for offensive power, putting him on track to challenge the major-league single-season home run record for catchers. His performance has helped the Mariners maintain a competitive position in the American League West. Raleigh is also set to participate in the 2025 Home Run Derby, further highlighting his historic power-hitting season.