Congratulations are in order for Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, who was just named as the ‘Breakout Star of the Year’ by Sports Illustrated.

The award recognizes one athlete who “unexpectedly dominated the sports conversation, making the leap from skilled performer to household name

‘The Big Dumper’ was already a very good player entering 2025, having hit 34 homers and driven in 100 runs in 2024, but he elevated himself to mythical status in this campaign.

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Raleigh hit 60 home runs, which led baseball, finishing second in the American League MVP voting. His 60 home runs were the most-ever by a catcher, a switch-hitter or by a Mariners player.

He won the Home Run Derby at the 2025 All-Star Game where he was the starter for the American League at catcher, and he helped the M’s advance to Game 7 of the American League Championship Series, where they narrowly lost to the Toronto Blue Jays.

Raleigh has already been named to Team USA’s roster for the World Baseball Classic and he’s now featured on national advertising campaigns for T-Mobile. He’s becoming one of the most marketable athletes in baseball, and is arguably the most marketable athlete in Seattle.

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Raleigh signed a six-year contract extension before the 2025 season, solidifying his spot in Seattle for years to come. He’ll pair with Julio Rodriguez and Josh Naylor as the faces of the M’s through the 2020s.

No one expects Raleigh to hit 60 home runs again, but he will remain a huge part of Seattle’s lineup, and they will lean on him heavily. For reference, ZIPS projections have him hitting 41 home runs and driving in 108 runs in 2026. The Mariners are seeking their second straight American League West title.

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Seattle has already locked up Naylor to a five-year deal and acquired left-hander Jose Ferrer from the Washington Nationals.

That said, there is more work to do, as the M’s need another bullpen arm and another piece on offense. They remain in the mix for Ketel Marte and Brendan Donovan, with Donovan thought to be the more likely choice. He would likely play some second base, some left field and some designated hitter. We’ve covered more about him in other posts.

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