The air in Truist Park was buzzing with anticipation on Monday night, July 14, 2025, as eight of Major League Baseball’s most prodigious sluggers stepped into the batter’s box for the annual T-Mobile Home Run Derby. While every participant brought their unique brand of power, it was Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh who ultimately emerged victorious, etching his name into the history books as the 2025 Home Run Derby champion. “Big Dumper,” as he’s known, didn’t just win; he made history, becoming the first catcher and the first switch-hitter to claim the coveted title outright, adding another incredible chapter to his breakout season.
The Derby, held on the eve of the 2025 MLB All-Star Game in Atlanta, delivered all the high-flying drama and majestic blasts fans have come to expect. From towering shots that threatened the upper deck to thrilling tiebreakers decided by mere inches, the competition showcased the immense talent of today’s power hitters.
The Road to the Crown: A Dominant Performance
Cal Raleigh’s path to victory was a testament to his consistent power and strategic hitting. Entering the Derby as the MLB leader in home runs with an astounding 38 long balls before the All-Star break, Raleigh was a formidable favorite.
- First Round Thriller: Raleigh faced a nail-biting start in the opening round. After hitting 17 home runs, he found himself tied with Oakland Athletics slugger Brent Rooker. The tiebreaker, decided by the longest home run of the round, saw Raleigh advance by an incredibly slim margin – less than an inch – demonstrating the fine line between victory and elimination in this intense competition.
- Semifinal Showdown: In the semifinals, Raleigh squared off against Pittsburgh Pirates sensation Oneil Cruz, who had launched an incredible 513-foot bomb in the first round – the longest of the night. Raleigh, batting purely left-handed in this round, put on a clinic, launching 19 homers to defeat Cruz and secure his spot in the final.
- Championship Round Glory: The final pitted Raleigh against the exciting young Tampa Bay Rays third baseman, Junior Caminero. Raleigh continued his powerful display, hitting 18 home runs in the final round. Caminero put up a valiant effort with 15 homers, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Raleigh’s consistent barrage.
Making History: First Catcher, First Switch-Hitter
Cal Raleigh’s victory was significant beyond just claiming the trophy. He became the first catcher in the history of the Home Run Derby to win the competition. This achievement speaks volumes about his unique power for a position traditionally known more for defensive prowess. Furthermore, Raleigh made history as the first outright switch-hitter to win the Derby. He showcased his versatility by hitting left-handed in the initial part of his first round before switching to right-handed, then sticking predominantly to the left side for the later rounds.
The moment was also a family affair, as Raleigh’s father, Todd, pitched to him throughout the competition, and his younger brother, Todd Jr., was behind the plate catching. This personal connection added an extra layer of emotion to an already monumental achievement.
A Star Continues to Rise
This Home Run Derby title is another crowning jewel in what has been a phenomenal 2025 season for Cal Raleigh. Beyond his league-leading home run total, he has established himself as a legitimate MVP candidate and a defensive stalwart, having won both a Gold Glove and Platinum Glove in 2024. His performance in Atlanta cements his status as one of baseball’s premier power hitters and most exciting talents.
The 2025 Home Run Derby delivered on all its promises of thrilling dingers and nail-biting finishes. But when the dust settled, it was Cal Raleigh, the Seattle Mariners’ “Big Dumper,” who stood alone as the champion, leaving an unforgettable mark on the Midsummer Classic.