Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh claimed victory in the 2025 T-Mobile Home Run Derby, held on a sweltering night at Truist Park in Atlanta. Raleigh triumphed over Junior Caminero of the Tampa Bay Rays in a thrilling final that showcased his remarkable hitting prowess. Alongside his father and younger brother, Raleigh celebrated a family moment that few athletes get to experience on such a grand stage.
The competition began with Raleigh demonstrating his exceptional power, hitting a total of 15 home runs in the final round. He opened with a strong performance, starting from the left side of the plate and quickly finding his rhythm. Raleigh hit seven home runs before taking a brief timeout, then launched eight more in the final minute, including a dramatic shot that cleared the fence just as time expired. In the subsequent bonus round, he added three more home runs, bringing his total to 19 for the round.
Caminero, who had a spectacular performance of his own, finished the contest with 15 home runs. Despite a strong effort, he fell short in his quest for victory. The two competitors captivated the audience with their impressive displays of power, but it was Raleigh who ultimately walked away with the coveted trophy, which included a bejeweled championship chain adorned with the words “Derby Champ.”
Following the contest, Raleigh expressed his disbelief and joy, stating, “It just means the world… I just can’t believe I won.” His father, Todd Raleigh, who served as his pitcher during the event, reflected on the experience, noting, “It’s just a great accomplishment… every dad who has a kid, this is what they dream about.”
Family Bonds and Historic Achievements
The night was not only significant for Raleigh’s personal success but also marked a historic achievement in the sport. With this victory, he became the first catcher and the first switch hitter to win the Home Run Derby. The event underscored the emotional connection between father and son, with Raleigh’s younger brother, aged 15, also participating as one of the catchers for the event.
As the festivities continued, the Raleigh family signed a baseball that will be displayed at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. Raleigh described the moment as “kind of surreal,” highlighting the unique nature of the experience. He added, “You don’t think you’re gonna win it… and when you get invited, you don’t think you’re going to win it. The fact that you win it with your family – super special. What a night.”
The Home Run Derby showcased some of baseball’s biggest stars, with Raleigh’s performance capturing the crowd’s admiration. The event featured a mix of ups and downs for various competitors. Notably, Jazz Chisholm Jr. struggled in the first round, hitting only three home runs, while Matt Olson of the Atlanta Braves garnered local support but failed to advance despite hitting 15 home runs.
In the opening round, Raleigh faced fierce competition, including a dramatic tiebreaker against Brent Rooker of the Oakland Athletics. Both players ended with 17 home runs, but Raleigh advanced due to a slightly longer hit, measured by Statcast.
A Night to Remember
The semifinals featured more excitement. Byron Buxton of the Minnesota Twins had a slower start, hitting only seven home runs, while Caminero advanced after hitting 21 home runs in the first round. Raleigh, however, proved unstoppable, hitting 19 home runs in his semifinal round. His remarkable performance set a high bar, and O’Neil Cruz of the Pittsburgh Pirates was unable to surpass it despite hitting a stunning 513-foot home run earlier in the competition.
Raleigh’s victory in the Home Run Derby not only earned him the prestigious title but also a prize of $1 million. He will carry the momentum into the upcoming All-Star Game, where he is slated to bat fourth for the American League team. As the night concluded, it was evident that Raleigh’s achievement resonated beyond the diamond, serving as a reminder of the deep connections that sports can forge within families.
