History in the Making: Cal Raleigh Ties Mickey Mantle's Switch-Hitter Home Run Record and Fuels Mariners' Winning Streak

In a season of milestones and dramatic victories, Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh delivered another historic moment on Sunday, tying a legendary mark set by one of baseball's all-time greats. Raleigh launched his 54th home run of the season, a first-inning blast against the Los Angeles Angels, to match Mickey Mantle for the most home runs by a switch-hitter in a single season.

The record-tying homer was a poetic moment for Raleigh, who, as a seventh-grader, had his dad pull him out of school to learn about baseball's legends, including the iconic Mantle. Now, the Mariners slugger's name is in the same conversation. While Raleigh acknowledges the significance of the accomplishment, he remains focused on the bigger picture: the Mariners' historic playoff push.

"I’m glad that we have something bigger to work towards," Raleigh said, referring to his team's recent success.

Sparked by Raleigh’s early home run, the Mariners went on to win 11-2, extending their winning streak to nine games and moving into sole possession of first place in the AL West. This marks the latest point in a season that the Mariners have held a divisional lead since their record-setting 2001 team.

Raleigh's two-run shot was the start of a total team effort. The offense exploded for a six-run fourth inning, with six different players recording multi-hit games and the team collecting seven doubles. Infielder Jorge Polanco was a force, matching a Seattle franchise record with his seventh straight game with a double.

On the mound, Mariners ace George Kirby was equally dominant. He bounced back from a couple of rough outings to pitch into the seventh inning, matching his career-high with 14 strikeouts. Kirby allowed just two runs on three hits, showcasing the top-tier form that has been a cornerstone of Seattle's recent success.

As Raleigh moves into truly uncharted territory with each home run he hits, the next milestones are just as significant. His 55th homer will give him the switch-hitter record, while his 56th will tie him with Ken Griffey Jr. for the most home runs in a single season in Mariners franchise history. His pursuit of 60 home runs will be a historic chase, as only three players in AL history—Babe Ruth, Roger Maris, and Aaron Judge—have reached that mark.

While the individual records are a sight to behold, the Mariners are a team on a mission. Their current win streak and place in the standings are a testament to their collective determination, a sentiment echoed by Kirby: "The Astros and Rangers are never going to go away so we’ve got to keep attacking every day, and I think that’s what everyone’s doing right now."