Mariners' Raleigh ends home run drought with first blast of 2026

Seattle slugger hit 60 homers last season but had gone 10 games without one

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:51am

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A dynamic, colorful painting with thick, energetic brushstrokes depicting the powerful swing and motion of a baseball player hitting a home run, conveying the raw athleticism and excitement of the moment.Mariners slugger Cal Raleigh's explosive home run swing ignites the team's offense after a slow start to the season.Arlington Today

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, who led the major leagues with 60 home runs last year, hit his first of the 2026 season on Monday night against the Texas Rangers, ending a 10-game drought to start the new campaign.

Why it matters

Raleigh is one of the Mariners' top offensive threats, and his power production is crucial to the team's success. After a historic 2025 season, his slow start had raised some concerns, so this home run will help alleviate those worries and get him back on track.

The details

Raleigh's homer came in the game against two-time Cy Young Award winner Jacob deGrom of the Rangers. He pulled the ball deep to right field for his first long ball of the year.

  • Raleigh hit the home run on Monday, April 7, 2026.

The players

Cal Raleigh

A catcher for the Seattle Mariners who led the major leagues with 60 home runs in the 2025 season.

Jacob deGrom

A two-time Cy Young Award winning pitcher for the Texas Rangers.

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What they’re saying

“It was good to finally get that first one out of the way. Hopefully this gets me going and I can start putting up some big numbers again.”

— Cal Raleigh, Mariners Catcher

What’s next

Raleigh and the Mariners will look to build on this home run as they continue their series against the Rangers over the next few days.

The takeaway

Raleigh's power is a key part of the Mariners' offense, so this home run will be a relief after his slow start. If he can regain his 2025 form, it will be a big boost for Seattle as they aim to contend in the AL West.