Cal Raleigh Shines in Mariners’ ALDS Triumph Over Tigers
Cal Raleigh played a pivotal role in the Seattle Mariners’ thrilling victory over the Detroit Tigers, clinching the American League Division Series (ALDS) and securing a spot in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) for the first time since 2001. The decisive Game 5 took place on October 11, 2025, and went into 15 innings, lasting nearly five hours, making it one of the longest games in MLB postseason history.
Historic Game Overview
The Mariners triumphed with a 3-2 score after an intense battle featuring 15 pitchers and a staggering 37 strikeouts. Both teams displayed resilience as they fought to stay alive in the postseason, with Seattle eventually emerging victorious thanks to a bases-loaded single by Jorge Polanco.
Cal Raleigh’s Impact
- Raleigh caught all 209 pitches during Game 5 and contributed significantly with his batting.
- He recorded a postseason batting average of .381, showcasing his impressive performance at the plate.
- The player’s leadership behind the plate and his ability to call pitches were crucial in stifling the Tigers’ offense.
Known affectionately as “The Big Dumper,” Raleigh has established himself as a formidable presence both offensively and defensively. His blend of charm, skill, and determination has made him the face of the 2025 baseball season.
A Long-Awaited Opportunity
This victory marks Seattle’s first ALCS appearance in 24 years, ending what has been the longest current World Series drought in MLB history. With this win, the Mariners will face the Toronto Blue Jays, who have not appeared in the World Series for 32 years. Both teams have storied pasts as expansion franchises from 1977.
Raleigh’s Journey and Recognition
Growing up in North Carolina, Raleigh has long idolized baseball legends like Cal Ripken Jr. His consistent performance has drawn comparisons to these icons. This season, he has hit a remarkable 60 home runs and signed a $105 million contract, which quickly became a perceived bargain given his performance.
Raleigh’s dependability behind home plate has helped stabilize the Mariners’ pitching staff, allowing them to effectively navigate challenging matchups. His ability to connect with pitchers and manage the game’s tempo has been instrumental in their success.
Looking Ahead
As the Mariners prepare for the ALCS, Raleigh remains optimistic and determined to make the most of this opportunity. His leadership and performance on the field will be vital as the team seeks to break their long-standing World Series drought.
- Next Game: Seattle Mariners vs. Toronto Blue Jays
- Watch for: Cal Raleigh’s continued contributions both defensively and offensively
The Mariners and their fans are ready to embrace this moment, echoing Raleigh’s call for the team to aim for ultimate victory: “Might as well go win the whole f—ing thing!”
