Mariners' Cal Raleigh Wins MLB Home Run Derby, First Catcher Champion

Seattle Mariners catcher and switch-hitter Cal Raleigh won the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby, becoming the first catcher and switch-hitter to claim the title and the first Mariner champion since Ken Griffey Jr. Raleigh hit 18 home runs in the final round, defeating Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Junior Caminero, who finished with 15. Raleigh's victory was notable for his use of both sides of the plate, hitting eight homers left-handed and nine right-handed in the first round, narrowly advancing by the longest home run distance over Brent Rooker. Supporting him in the final round were his father, Todd, pitching, and his 15-year-old brother catching, helping Raleigh achieve a total of 54 home runs in the event. His outstanding season includes 38 home runs before the All-Star break, putting him in contention for the American League MVP and on pace to challenge Mariners' single-season home run records. The Derby featured strong performances from other contestants, such as Oneil Cruz and Byron Buxton, but Raleigh's consistency and power secured his historic win.