Cal Raleigh is the Fourth American League Player EVER to Hit 60 Home Runs in a Season!
What does it take for a major league hitter to reach 60 home runs in one season? Ask Cal Raleigh—because he just joined one of the most exclusive clubs in all of baseball. Only three other players in American League history have ever reached this towering milestone before him. If you love baseball records or just marvel at big swings and big moments, this story is worth your time.
Why Hitting 60 Home Runs Is Such a Big Deal
Let’s be real—hitting a baseball consistently isn’t easy. Connecting well enough to send one out of the park? Even harder. Now imagine doing that 60 times over one season. That’s not just impressive; it’s downright historic.
Cal Raleigh’s achievement isn’t just about power—it’s about endurance through a long MLB season, maintaining focus against ever-evolving pitchers, and handling pressure night after night. Since the game began over a century ago, very few have pulled off this feat.
The Elite Company Cal Raleigh Now Keeps
You might wonder who else has managed this kind of slugging dominance before Cal Raleigh. Here are the only other American League hitters who’ve reached or surpassed the magical “60” mark:
- Babe Ruth (New York Yankees) – The Sultan of Swat first set the standard.
- Roger Maris (New York Yankees) – His famous chase captivated America in 1961.
- Aaron Judge (New York Yankees) – He smashed past 61 homers in recent years.
And now? Cal Raleigh stands shoulder-to-shoulder with those legends—all wearing different jerseys but sharing that rare achievement.
How Cal Raleigh Smashed His Way Into History
Raleigh’s journey started quietly enough with the Seattle Mariners. Not always considered a classic “power hitter,” he steadily built his reputation as someone who could change games with one swing. This year? Everything clicked.
Some keys to his record-breaking year:
- Consistent Approach: Staying patient at the plate paid off with more hittable pitches.
- Strength and Conditioning: Off-season work added extra pop to his bat.
- Mental Toughness: Slumps happen—but he bounced back quickly every time.
- Supportive Teammates: The Mariners’ lineup gave him protection and chances to see better pitches.
Fans packed ballparks for every at-bat after #50 as anticipation grew. Commentators and opponents alike tipped their caps—everyone knew something special was happening each time he dug into the batter’s box.
Anecdote: The Night It Happened
Picture this—the late innings on a crisp September evening at T-Mobile Park. The crowd buzzed with nervous energy every time Cal stepped up. Down by two runs with one on base, he worked the count full against an ace reliever.
And then, crack! A soaring drive deep into right field—a no-doubter from the moment it left his bat. The place erupted as fans realized they’d witnessed history. Teammates poured out of the dugout and mobbed him at home plate while flashbulbs popped everywhere.
If you ask anyone who was there that night, they’ll tell you—this wasn’t just another home run; it was THE home run that put his name alongside Ruth, Maris, and Judge.
What Does This Mean for Baseball (and For Fans)?
Raleigh’s achievement reminds us why we love sports—the drama of chasing something few others have ever done. For Mariners fans, it brings pride and maybe even hope for bigger things ahead (like a playoff push). For young athletes everywhere, it proves that hard work really can pay off—even if you’re not always seen as a superstar early on.
For Major League Baseball itself? Moments like these keep old traditions alive while inspiring new generations to dream big.
So here’s my question for you—where do you think Cal Raleigh’s record-setting campaign ranks among all-time great seasons? And will we see someone top this number anytime soon?
Leave a Reply