Mariners' Cal Raleigh Hits 36 Home Runs Leads MLB Amid Yankees Series

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh is having a breakout season, leading the majors with 36 home runs and setting a Mariners record for most home runs by the All-Star break. Despite pitchers being more cautious and issuing intentional walks, Raleigh emphasizes the importance of discipline and not forcing his swing, trusting the game to come to him. He will participate in the upcoming Home Run Derby and start for the American League in the All-Star Game. The Mariners recently played a three-game series against the New York Yankees, where the Yankees won the opener 10-3, but Raleigh continued to assert his power with a late home run. Raleigh's popularity and unique persona, including his nickname “Big Dumper,” have garnered attention both on and off the field, highlighted by a playful broadcast moment during the Yankees series. Seattle is currently on a six-game road trip trailing Houston in the division, while the Yankees are chasing Toronto in the AL East.