Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh stepped onto the field at Truist Park on Tuesday night living out a dream years in the making. Just moments before the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, the breakout slugger paused to reflect on his journey in a quick sideline interview that left a lasting impression on fans and viewers across the league.
During the pregame broadcast on FOX Sports, Raleigh was approached by reporter Tom Verducci and asked what it meant to be part of his first career All-Star Game. The moment, captured on camera and later posted by FOX Sports: MLB on X (formerly known as Twitter), struck a chord with baseball fans everywhere.
“Super excited to be out here with the best players in the world in a packed house. It’s what you dream of as a kid”
Cal Raleigh talks with Tom Verducci before the start of tonight's All-Star Game pic.twitter.com/5R1GfYUhBK
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) July 16, 2025
“Super excited to be out here with the best players in the world in a packed house. It’s what you dream of as a kid”
The interview quickly gained traction online, viewed over 6,600 times just hours after airing. What stood out wasn’t just the setting—Raleigh wearing his All-Star jersey under the bright Atlanta lights—it was the humility and authenticity in his delivery. No talk of stats, no bravado, just appreciation.
This came just one night after Raleigh made history as the first catcher ever to win the Home Run Derby. He launched 18 home runs in the final round to beat Junior Caminero of the Tampa Bay Rays, capping a memorable run that included wins over Brent Rooker and Oneil Cruz. But in typical fashion, Raleigh kept the moment family-centered, having his father Todd throw pitches and his younger brother Todd Jr. catch during the event.
It was more than a symbolic gesture. Raleigh's father left his college coaching career behind years ago to support his son’s baseball development, even relocating the family to North Carolina. That decision paid off—both emotionally and athletically—as the Mariners catcher celebrated his crowning moment in front of the very people who shaped him. Todd could be seen raising his arms in joy as his son’s final home run cleared the wall.
Now a centerpiece for both the Mariners and Team USA in the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic, Raleigh’s rise is one of the most compelling stories of the season. From overlooked prospect to Home Run Derby winner, his ascent is being embraced by fans not only for the power he brings to the plate but for the humility and class he displays in the spotlight.
The 2025 All-Star Game marked the start of a new chapter for Raleigh—a deserving All-Star who reminded everyone that some dreams still come true the old-fashioned way, with work, gratitude and a deep love for the game.
