Mariners Slugger Cal Raleigh Ends 10-Game Drought with First 2026 Home Run

Raleigh's homer off Rangers' Jacob deGrom came after a 12-pitch at-bat in the first inning.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 1:51am

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An extreme close-up of a baseball player's bat making contact with the ball, captured in a vibrant, expressionist painting style with rapid brushstrokes and neon colors that convey the raw energy and impact of the swing.A powerful home run swing from Mariners slugger Cal Raleigh sparks hope for a breakout season after a slow start.Arlington Today

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, who led the major leagues with 60 home runs last year, hit his first home run of the 2026 season on Monday night against the Texas Rangers. Raleigh's homer came in the first inning off two-time Cy Young Award winner Jacob deGrom after a 12-pitch at-bat.

Why it matters

Raleigh is a key power hitter for the Mariners, and his slow start to the season had raised some concerns. This home run could help get him going and provide a boost to the Mariners' offense as they look to make a playoff push.

The details

Raleigh's homer was pulled deep to right field against deGrom. He fouled off six pitches with two strikes before connecting on a 99 mph fastball. Raleigh's longest home run drought last season was eight games, so this 10-game stretch without a homer was starting to become concerning.

  • Raleigh hit the home run on Monday, April 7, 2026.
  • Raleigh had gone 10 games without a home run to start the 2026 season.

The players

Cal Raleigh

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

Jacob deGrom

A pitcher for the Texas Rangers who is a two-time Cy Young Award winner.

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What’s next

The Mariners will look to Raleigh to continue providing power in the middle of their lineup as they try to make a playoff push in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Raleigh's home run ends a concerning 10-game drought to start the season, and it could be a sign that the Mariners' slugger is starting to find his groove at the plate again after leading the league in home runs last year.