In the realm of Major League Baseball, a new star is rising, and his name is Cal Raleigh. The Seattle Mariners’ switch-hitting catcher isn’t just making headlines; he’s etching his name into the annals of baseball history. Renowned Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench is among his most ardent admirers, watching with great interest as Raleigh continues to shatter records.
Cal Raleigh’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. He recently became the first catcher in MLB history to clout 20 home runs before June 1, placing him just two homers short of Bench’s record for the most by a catcher before the All-Star break—28 home runs, a feat achieved by Bench in 1970. As of mid-June, Raleigh had amassed 26 home runs, showcasing his power at the plate while also being recognized as the best defensive catcher in the game. He’s won multiple Gold Gloves and even a Platinum Glove, affirming his all-around skills.
Johnny Bench, widely celebrated as one of the greatest catchers in baseball history, initially crossed paths with Raleigh last November. They met at the Rawlings Gold Glove dinner in New York, an encounter that left a lasting impression on both men. Bench took the opportunity to share his wisdom, fame, and experience as Raleigh soaked in every word, pointing out the importance of raising his game, especially with runners in scoring position.
For Bench, watching Raleigh play has been a thrill. “I love watching him hit. He’s not afraid to challenge pitchers,” Bench remarked, stating his fondness for Raleigh’s overall game. The admiration is mutual; Raleigh is still in awe of Bench’s legacy. “To have someone like Johnny Bench—an absolute legend—appreciating my game means the world,” Raleigh said.
Raleigh’s statistics this season further validate his prowess. With 26 home runs and 53 RBIs at the halfway point of the season, he’s not just a power hitter, but a key cog in the Mariners’ offensive engine. His on-base percentage stands a solid .376, complemented by that nearly one-point OPS at .998, which is astonishing for any player, let alone a catcher. That’s a significant testimony to his balanced skill set: Raleigh is killing it offensively while excelling defensively.
Seasoned teammates and coaches are equally impressed by Raleigh’s growth. Mariners’ center fielder Julio Rodriguez succinctly stated, “When he’s getting his pitches, he’s not missing them.” Meanwhile, backup catcher Mitch Garver noted how Raleigh has transformed his approach, citing improvements in all facets of his game throughout his career. Garver explained how Raleigh transitioned from a bat-first mentality to a more comprehensive catching style, ultimately benefiting the entire pitching staff.
On the defensive front, Raleigh has made history by throwing out the most runners attempting to steal for two consecutive seasons—a feat not recorded since Hall of Famer Gary Carter in 1982-83. This showcases not only Raleigh’s accuracy and arm strength but also his strategic mind behind the dish. His ability to manage the pitching staff and call games has drawn awe from veterans on the roster.
However, Raleigh is not content with merely being recognized as one of the best power-hitting catchers. He aspires to be regarded as one of the best in full-spectrum catching, citing role models like Yadier Molina, whose defensive gifts and leadership qualities he deeply admires. “You wanted to be him. He was so good in every aspect of the game,” Raleigh explained.
The future for Raleigh appears bright. This season, he has not only shown the potential to break records but also possesses the will to lead the Seattle Mariners back to the postseason—a feat that has eluded the franchise since 2001, except for one meager playoff appearance. As he told reporters, “I just look really forward to what’s to come, and hopefully get these guys in the World Series because these last two seasons have been extremely disappointing.”
The Mariners are progressively building a formidable lineup, with Raleigh as a critical piece. His recent six-year, $105 million contract extension guarantees he will be with the team for the foreseeable future. This long-term commitment signifies not just faith in his talent but also his role as a leader among teammates and a beloved figure for Mariners’ fans.
For Raleigh, the journey is more than just individual success; it’s about team triumphs. He yearns not just to collect accolades but to deliver moments that ignite the memories of Seattle fans, reminiscent of the glory days when legends like Ken Griffey Jr. and Edgar Martinez graced the diamond.
As we continue to watch the enormity of Raleigh’s potential unfold, it becomes increasingly evident that he is a name we will remember for years to come. His blend of power hitting and defensive skill positions him uniquely in the game. Cal Raleigh’s story in baseball is still being written, but with a fan favorite like Johnny Bench cheering him on, the narrative is bound to be an exhilarating one. As he aims to make his mark in the ever-evolving saga of Major League Baseball, one can’t help but feel anticipation for what’s in store next.
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