Cal Raleigh Makes History as First Catcher to Win Home Run Derby

Cal Raleigh etched his name in baseball history on July 10, 2023, by becoming the first catcher and switch-hitter to win the All-Star Home Run Derby. The Seattle Mariners player triumphed over Tampa Bay’s Junior Caminero with a final score of 18-15 at Truist Park in Atlanta. Raleigh’s victory not only earned him a prestigious title but also a prize of $1 million.

With his father, Todd Raleigh, pitching and younger brother, Todd Raleigh Jr., catching, Cal showcased a remarkable performance. After narrowly advancing past the first round with a tiebreaker against Brent Rooker, Raleigh hit a total of 54 home runs throughout the competition. His first-round tiebreaker was decided by a mere 0.96 inches, highlighting the razor-thin margins in this high-stakes event.

Cal, who leads the major leagues with 38 home runs at the All-Star break, reflected on the significance of the moment. “Anyone that’s ever played baseball as a kid dreams of stuff like this,” Todd Raleigh remarked, expressing pride in both his sons. The family dynamic was on full display, with young Todd, affectionately called T, cheering enthusiastically for his older brother.

The Derby featured a competitive field, with Raleigh overcoming Pittsburgh’s Oneil Cruz in the semifinals, where Cruz delivered the longest home run of the night at 513 feet. Raleigh’s consistent performance included hitting eight homers left-handed before switching to hit seven right-handed, and ultimately finishing the night back at his dominant left side.

Caminero, who was the second finalist, praised his experience in the Derby, stating, “I didn’t think I was going to hit as many home runs or make it to the finals.” His strong showing included a notable performance to reach the final round, despite being eliminated after falling short against Raleigh.

The event attracted significant attention, not only for the competition but also for the nostalgic family moments it represented. Todd Raleigh, a former coach, had instilled a love for the game in both his sons since they were young. “I would take that big ball, and he had a big red bat. I’d throw it slow, and he’d hit it,” Todd Sr. recalled, emphasizing the early training that led to this historic achievement.

In the first round, other competitors, including Atlanta’s Matt Olson and Washington’s James Wood, were eliminated, with Olson finishing with just 15 home runs, disappointing his local fans. Chisholm Jr. of the New York Yankees managed only three homers, the lowest since the timer format was introduced in 2015.

After the competition concluded, the Raleigh family reflected on the journey that brought them to this milestone. Todd Sr. acknowledged the challenges of coaching two switch hitters, humorously noting, “I don’t recommend it if you want to save your arm.” Despite the physical toll, the family remains dedicated to the sport, often practicing in their personal batting cage.

As Cal Raleigh celebrates his historic win, he joins the ranks of other Mariners greats, becoming the second player from the franchise to win the Derby, following the legendary Ken Griffey Jr. The night was not just a personal triumph for Cal but a family celebration of baseball, dreams, and shared moments that will last a lifetime.