Cal Raleigh is quickly becoming one of baseball’s most talked-about players—and it’s not just because of his home run totals. The Seattle Mariners catcher is rewriting expectations for his position with a record-breaking power display, all while swinging a custom “torpedo” bat that’s become as iconic as his nickname.
Raleigh, affectionately dubbed “Big Dumper” by fans and teammates alike, has fully embraced the moniker—and it’s now part of his brand. In a show-stealing appearance at the 2025 Home Run Derby at Truist Park, Raleigh wielded a bright orange bat adorned with sky-blue “Big Dumper” lettering and a playful dump truck graphic. The bat, like the player, doesn’t take itself too seriously—but make no mistake: the performance was pure dominance.
Raleigh took home the Derby crown after launching 54 total homers across three rounds, besting Tampa Bay’s Junior Caminero by three in the final. With his dad, Todd, pitching and his younger brother catching, the family affair added heart to an already unforgettable night. “Winning this with my family makes it super special,” Raleigh said, reflecting on the emotional milestone.
A New Approach, A Historic Outcome
While fans may be charmed by the colorful bat and nickname, Raleigh’s results are no joke. He became the first catcher in MLB history to hit 38 home runs before the All-Star break, shattering Johnny Bench’s 1970 record of 28. The secret? A pair of custom-designed torpedo bats tailored to his switch-hitting style. “Right-handed is end-loaded, and left-handed is balanced,” he explained—highlighting how innovation is meeting performance at the plate.
This evolution hasn’t just elevated his slugging numbers—it’s transformed his season. Coming into 2025 with a .218 career average and 93 home runs, Raleigh has exploded into elite territory with a 1.011 OPS, a stat that now rivals the league’s most dangerous hitters.
His transformation came in part thanks to a partnership with Rawlings, the equipment company behind his custom bats. “Once I started using them, everything clicked,” he said.
Not Every Tool Works for Everyone
It’s worth noting that Raleigh’s success with the torpedo bats is unique. Sluggers like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani continue to rely on more traditional models. Raleigh’s rise is a reminder that personal fit and confidence often matter more than following trends. As Judge himself put it, “It’s great that he’s found what works for him.”
Humble Star, Big Stage
Despite his meteoric rise and a newly signed six-year, $105 million contract extension, Raleigh remains grounded. “You have confidence in yourself as a player, but this is a lot,” he admitted. It’s clear he hasn’t let success derail his focus—his eyes are still on team goals and continued personal growth.
With two weeks left before the All-Star break, Raleigh already holds the single-season pre-break home run record for a catcher—and he’s not done yet. Salvador Perez’s all-time mark of 48 home runs by a catcher in a full season is well within reach. If Raleigh keeps swinging with this mix of confidence and innovation, history may be rewritten again.
More Than a Swing: A Mindset Shift
What’s most impressive about Raleigh’s breakout isn’t just his physical power—it’s his mental maturity. “I’ve grown as a baseball player over time,” he reflected. “It’s not just physical tools; it’s understanding your approach, trusting your instincts, and knowing what works for you.”
That mindset, paired with a game-changing bat and an unshakable sense of self, is powering one of the most compelling stories of the season. Raleigh isn’t just putting up big numbers—he’s showing a new generation of players that authenticity, adaptability, and self-belief can be just as important as raw talent.
Image Source: Cal Raleigh @ Instagram
