Cal Raleigh Makes History Winning Home Run Derby and Driving Record Viewership

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh achieved a historic milestone on July 15, 2025, by becoming the first catcher and first switch-hitter to win the MLB All-Star Home Run Derby, defeating Junior Caminero in the final and eliminating Oneil Cruz in the semifinal. His victory, which included a record-tying 470.62-foot blast, significantly boosted the Derby's ratings, with viewership up 5% from 2024 to an average of 5.729 million. Raleigh, who leads the majors with 38 homers and 82 RBIs and is the American League's starting catcher for the All-Star Game, is now on pace to challenge Aaron Judge's single-season American League home run record. He attributes his success to strong mental and physical self-care, even appearing on the All-Star red carpet. His father, Todd, served as his personal pitcher, and his 15-year-old brother, Todd Jr., was his catcher during the event.