**BREAKING NEWS: Cal Raleigh Shatters MLB Record with Historic 49th Home Run as Mariners Catcher**
**By: [Your Name], Sports Correspondent | Updated Aug 24, 2025, 5:22 pm ET**
In a jaw-dropping display of power and precision, Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners has rewritten the history books by smashing his 49th home run of the season against the Oakland Athletics. This monumental blast not only secured Raleigh’s place as a record-breaking catcher but also surpassed Salvador Perez’s previous record of 48 set in 2021.
Raleigh’s extraordinary feat unfolded during a showdown with the Athletics, where he showcased his unparalleled hitting prowess with a two-homer game that left fans and analysts alike in awe. The record-setting home run, a towering 412-foot shot off a first-pitch changeup from A’s lefty Jacob Lopez, solidified Raleigh’s status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of baseball.
Mariners manager Dan Wilson praised Raleigh’s exceptional performance, noting his ability to consistently connect with the ball and deliver thunderous hits. With 30 games still remaining in the season, Raleigh has ample opportunity to further elevate his home run tally and etch his name even deeper into the annals of baseball history.
Raleigh’s milestone achievement places him among a select group of elite catchers who have reached the 40-home run mark in a single season. The leaderboard now stands as follows:
– **Cal Raleigh, 2025:** 49 and counting
– **Salvador Perez, 2021:** 48
– **Johnny Bench, 1970:** 45
– **Javy Lopez, 2003:** 43
– **Roy Campanella, 1953:** 41
– **Todd Hundley, 1996:** 41
– **Johnny Bench, 1972:** 40
– **Mike Piazza, 1997:** 40
– **Mike Piazza, 1999:** 40
While Raleigh’s exceptional performance has been bolstered by his versatility as a designated hitter, the majority of his home runs have been achieved while fulfilling the demanding role of catcher. Unlike past eras, Raleigh faces the unique challenge of navigating through a plethora of pitcher matchups each game, a testament to his skill and adaptability.
A third-round pick by the Mariners in 2018, Raleigh’s meteoric rise to prominence has been underscored by his consistent power hitting and stellar defensive abilities behind the plate. His record-breaking season serves as a culmination of years of hard work and dedication, with his impressive home run tally from 2021 to 2025 setting a new standard for catcher excellence in Major League Baseball.
As fans eagerly anticipate Raleigh’s next at-bat, the baseball world remains captivated by his phenomenal achievements and the indelible mark he continues to leave on the sport. Stay tuned for more updates as Raleigh’s historic season unfolds before our eyes.
Source: www.cbssports.com