Cal Raleigh’s Family Celebration: How the Mariners Star Clinched the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby Title

Cal Raleigh’s journey to becoming a Home Run Derby champion is one for the books. Just a few days ago, nostalgia hit hard as video surfaced of an 8-year-old Raleigh declaring himself a champion in his backyard. “That video is crazy! I can’t believe they found it,” he said after winning.

Raleigh’s recent performance has been nothing short of spectacular. He has become one of the top hitters in baseball, smashing 38 home runs before the All-Star Break—just one short of tying Barry Bonds’ record for the most before the break. This feat puts him among baseball’s elite.

On Monday night, Raleigh outperformed Junior Caminero from the Tampa Bay Rays, making history as the first catcher and switch-hitter to win the Derby. He knocked out a total of 54 home runs across three rounds, including an impressive 18 in the final round. His family stood by him throughout the journey—his dad Todd, a former college baseball coach, was instrumental in shaping his skills. “I’ve been teaching him since he was in diapers,” Todd shared, reflecting on their time spent practicing together.

The stakes were high, and Raleigh’s victory came down to the tiniest of margins. He bested A’s player Brent Rooker in the first round by just eight inches, thanks to a home run that traveled 470.61 feet. Such close calls are rare in the sport.

Winning the Home Run Derby comes with a $1 million prize and a gleaming trophy, but for Raleigh, the real treasure was celebrating with his family. “To win it with family is really special,” he said. “Just what a night.”

Interestingly, this victory connects back to the roots of baseball. Kids everywhere dream of playing in big leagues, and Raleigh’s story highlights that those dreams can come true, especially with the support of family.

Todd Raleigh expressed gratitude for this moment, saying, “I can’t put it into words. It’s just a blessing.” Their family’s journey illustrates the powerful bond between dreams, hard work, and unwavering support.

The Home Run Derby is not just a competition; it represents the pinnacle of achievement in baseball, and Raleigh’s win serves as an inspiration to many. It’s a reminder that dedication, family, and a little bit of luck can create magical moments in sports.

For more on sports statistics and records, you can check the official MLB website here.

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Seattle Mariners, Tampa Bay Rays, MLB