Cal Raleigh’s 57th Homer: Mariners History in the Making

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On September 20, 2025, Cal Raleigh launched his 57th home run of the season in a game against the Houston Astros — a solo shot in the third inning that didn’t just help the Mariners win; it rewrote their record books. Reuters+1

What Record Was Broken

With No. 57, Raleigh surpassed Ken Griffey Jr., who held the Seattle Mariners single-season home run mark with 56, achieved back in 1997 and 1998. Reuters+2ESPN.com+2
He also extended his lead in multiple other categories:
• Most home runs in a season by a switch hitter, breaking Mickey Mantle’s long-standing mark. Reuters+2Reuters+2
• Most home runs in a season by a full-time catcher, passing the previous high set by Salvador Perez (48 in 2021). Reuters+2Reuters+2

Why This Feat Is Especially Significant

Historical weight: Griffey Jr. isn’t just any name in Mariners lore — he’s a legend, Hall of Famer, beloved in Seattle. For Raleigh to fret this record away from him brings instant legendary status. ESPN.com+2Reuters+2
Catcher rarity: Catchers typically see fewer games and carry heavier physical tolls due to gear, squatting, play calling, etc. For a catcher to put up 57 home runs is rare, demanding both power and durability. Raleigh now holds the single-season mark for catchers. Reuters+1
Switch-hitter milestone: Hitting from both sides of the plate is harder in terms of maintaining power. Raleigh’s achievement ties him to names like Mantle in that category, giving him crossover historical importance. Reuters+1

The Game & Context

The homer came early in the game — third inning — giving the Mariners a 3-0 lead. Reuters
It helped Seattle secure a 6-4 win over Houston, a key win in their tight AL West race. The victory stretched the Mariners’ lead and gave them important tiebreaker leverage. Reuters
Before this, Raleigh had already broken or tied other records in the season: most homers by a catcher in a season, switch-hitter single-season records, and had tied Griffey’s record before surpassing it. Reuters+2Reuters+2

Impacts & What Comes Next

MVP considerations: Raleigh is now a strong contender for MVP of the American League. His power numbers, offensive production (including home runs and RBIs), and the historical nature of his achievements place him in rare company. Reuters+1
Chasing 60: With 57 home runs, a minor pace shift could see him crack 60. 60+ home run seasons are rare and often remembered forever. If he keeps swinging this way, that milestone might be in reach. Yahoo Sports+2Reuters+2
Mariners’ momentum: This milestone adds fuel to Seattle’s push in the AL West. Breakout power performances can lift team morale and put pressure on rivals. Reuters

Final Thoughts

Cal Raleigh’s 57th homer isn’t just another long ball — it’s a landmark. It’s rewriting Mariners history, elevating a catcher’s legacy, and giving fans something to talk about beyond wins and losses. When you factor in the rarity of doing this as a catcher and switch-hitter, it becomes more than just a stat — it’s a moment.