Cal Raleigh ignites Mariners with record-setting prowess as division title looms
Cal Raleigh is back to form, and his resurgence couldn’t have come at a more opportune moment for the Seattle Mariners. After struggling for a couple of months, the team’s standout catcher appears to have rediscovered his swing, propelling the Mariners into a crucial stretch of the season.
Raleigh’s performance over the last few weeks has been nothing short of remarkable. Despite an earlier slump that saw his batting average dip below the Mendoza line, he has turned things around significantly. As the Mariners enter a tightly contested race, currently holding a half-game lead over the Houston Astros, Raleigh’s contributions are proving vital.
Recent Performance Highlights
In his last 15 games, Raleigh has gone 12-for-46, translating to a .261 batting average. This uptick includes two doubles, four home runs, and eight runs batted in. His plate discipline has also shone through, as he’s drawn 11 walks, yielding an impressive .414 on-base percentage. With a slugging percentage of .565 and an OPS soaring to .979 during this stretch, Raleigh is finding ways to impact the game offensively.
His season total has now climbed to 54 home runs, placing him on the brink of breaking Mickey Mantle’s long-standing record for the most home runs in a single season by a switch-hitter, a feat that has remained untouched since 1961.
Support from Teammates
Raleigh’s hot streak is complemented by other key contributors in the Mariners’ lineup. Jorge Polanco has elevated his game with a staggering 1.274 OPS over the same span, while Julio Rodriguez is also making waves with an OPS of 1.071. However, it’s Raleigh, nicknamed “Big Dumper,” whose energy and power give the Mariners a significant edge as they chase a division crown.
The Mariners’ recent performance, highlighted by their ability to set MLB pitching strikeout records, underscores their potential. With Raleigh’s resurgence coinciding with a critical moment in the season, the team is well-positioned to make a push for the top of the division and solidify their playoff aspirations. The spotlight is on Raleigh as he aims to etch his name in the record books while leading the Mariners in this pivotal chase.
