Cal Raleigh becomes first catcher to win event

Cal Raleigh: The Big Dumper’s Family Affair Home Run Derby Victory

The 2024 Home Run Derby delivered a captivating narrative: the triumph of Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, a victory made even sweeter by the integral role his family played. This wasn’t just a win; it was a family affair, a testament to dedication and unwavering support.

A Historic Win for a Switch-Hitting Catcher

Raleigh’s victory marked a significant milestone in Home Run Derby history. He became the first catcher ever to claim the title in the event’s four-decade run, a feat that adds a new chapter to this exciting competition. His win also secured his place in the record books as the first switch-hitter to win outright (Ruben Sierra shared the 1998 title).

A Family Effort

The scene was uniquely heartwarming. With his father, Todd, pitching and his 15-year-old brother, Todd Jr., catching, Raleigh’s family was front and center, providing a personal and emotional dimension to the high-pressure competition. As Raleigh himself stated on the ESPN broadcast, “It means the world. I could have hit zero home runs, and I would have had just as much fun. I just can’t believe we won. It’s unbelievable.” This genuine joy underscores the profound meaning of the victory, extending far beyond the realm of baseball statistics.

A Nail-Biting Finale Against Junior Caminero

The final round saw a tense back-and-forth between Raleigh and Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Junior Caminero, who, at 22, would have been the youngest Derby champion ever. While Caminero initially presented a formidable challenge, his performance faltered in the bonus round. He needed four more home runs to keep up, but only managed one, ultimately securing Raleigh’s victory with a score of 18 to 15.

A Season for the Record Books

This Home Run Derby win is just the cherry on top of an already remarkable season for Raleigh. He enters the All-Star break leading MLB with 38 home runs, and his current pace suggests a potential 64 home runs by season’s end. This would shatter Aaron Judge’s American League record of 62, widely regarded as the cleanest home run record in MLB history. Raleigh’s performance has undoubtedly solidified his status as one of baseball’s most powerful hitters.

The Underdog’s Powerful Showing: Oneil Cruz

While Raleigh’s victory dominated headlines, the tournament also showcased the extraordinary power of Minnesota Twins star Byron Buxton and Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Oneil Cruz. Cruz, despite having only 16 home runs at the start of the Derby, was a pre-tournament favorite due to his incredible Statcast metrics. His prodigious power was on full display, with blasts reaching an astonishing 513 feet – tying Aaron Judge for the longest home run in the past decade (excluding Coors Field). Although he ultimately lost to Raleigh in the semifinals, Cruz left an unforgettable mark on the competition.

A First-Round Escape by a Hair’s Breadth

Even reaching the final was a dramatic journey for Raleigh. In a nail-biting first round, he tied with Brent Rooker, requiring a tie-breaker based on the longest home run. The margin of victory was unbelievably close: 470.61 feet for Raleigh versus 470.53 feet for Rooker – a difference of approximately one inch! This razor-thin win only intensified the thrill of his eventual victory.

Controversies and Close Calls

The Derby wasn’t without its moments of controversy. In the final round, Caminero hit a ball that appeared destined for a home run, only to be caught by one of the fielders. After review, the umpires awarded the home run. Fortunately, this call didn’t ultimately affect the outcome. The event highlights the fine line between triumph and defeat, and the role of chance and meticulous measurements in such a high-stakes competition.