Cal Raleigh Breaks Home Run Record for Mariners
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Cal Raleigh breaks Mariners’ Single-Season Home Run record
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Seattle mariners catcher Cal Raleigh surpassed Ken Griffey Jr.’s franchise record for home runs in a single season on Saturday, August 19, 2023, hitting his 57th home run against the Houston Astros.
The Record-Breaking Moment
On August 19, 2023, at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas, Cal Raleigh hit a solo home run off Houston Astros pitcher Framber Valdez in the third inning, extending the Mariners’ lead to 3-0. This home run was Raleigh’s 57th of the season, surpassing the previous franchise record of 56 set by Ken Griffey Jr. in 1997 and 1998 (tied).
Raleigh expressed his surprise and humility following the achievement, stating, It’s a weird thing to think about. I don’t really – I can’t really comprehend it or wrap my head around it really yet. So… very grateful for it and it just feels weird to be in the same sentence with him for sure.
” as reported by TSN.
Historical Context: Mariners Home Run Leaders
Ken Griffey Jr. held the Mariners’ single-season home run record for 25 years. His 56 home runs in both 1997 and 1998 were long considered benchmarks of offensive power for the franchise. Before Griffey Jr., the record was held by Jay Buhner with 44 home runs in 1996. Raleigh’s achievement marks a important moment in Mariners history, demonstrating a new era of offensive capability.
| Player | Year(s) | Home Runs |
|---|---|---|
| Cal Raleigh | 2023 | 57+ |
| Ken Griffey Jr. | 1997, 1998 | 56 |
| Jay Buhner | 1996 | 44 |
Raleigh’s 2023 Season performance
As of August 20, 2023, Cal Raleigh is having a standout season for the Mariners. Beyond the record-breaking home run total, he has a batting average of .248, with 82 RBIs and an OPS of .821. his power hitting has been a crucial component of the Mariners’ offensive strategy throughout the 2023 season.
raleigh’s success can be attributed to adjustments he’s made to his swing and approach at the plate, focusing on driving the ball to all fields. He has consistently demonstrated the ability to hit for both average and power, making him a valuable asset to the Mariners lineup.