SEATTLE, WA — In a major shock announced by TIME, Cal Raleigh — the Seattle Mariners’ super catcher — has officially been named one of the world’s Top 50 greatest team captains and sports leaders, placing him alongside world-renowned sports legends and icons.

This is more than just an award. This is a clear statement: Cal Raleigh is no longer just a famous MLB slugger — he has become a global sports leadership icon. An athlete recognized worldwide not just for his hit, but for his fighting spirit, his influence, and his ability to inspire teammates and fans.

2025 wasn’t just a “peak” season—it was a historic one for Cal Raleigh. In a campaign where every home run catcher was watching, Raleigh:

Became the first catcher in MLB history to reach 50 home runs in a single season—a feat never before seen from Salvador Perez or any other legendary catcher.

Recorded a rare feat with over 20 home runs from both sides of the field, placing him on the very small list of legendary switch-hitters.

Received his first Silver Slugger AL award, solidifying his undeniable position in the MLB data room.

These numbers prompted experts to exclaim that Raleigh didn’t just “polish”—he redefined the catcher position. While legends like Bench and Piazza once dominated, Cal Raleigh wrote the next chapter in baseball history.

When TIME assembled its global editorial team to select the 50 greatest sports leaders and captains, they looked not just for skill, but for pure influence: the ability to motivate a team, forge an indomitable spirit, and become an icon beyond the playing field. Among a list brimming with legends of soccer, basketball, football, and many other sports, Cal Raleigh was honored with a place on the list—and not just for his incredible home runs.

An online congratulatory post revealed that Cal Raleigh was included in the list of the most influential people in sports, honoring him as “The Catcher Who Redefined Leadership”: not just leadership through achievement, but through perseverance, sacrifice for the team, and an unwavering fighting spirit.

This is a testament to the fact that while baseball is often overshadowed by soccer or basketball on the global map, what Raleigh embodies is powerful enough to inspire the entire sports world.

More than just a driving force for the Mariners in the AL West title race, Cal Raleigh is becoming a global icon for MLB fans:

Major brands are embracing his image as a leadership icon.

International sports media are mentioning him as an icon who is changing the way the world views catcher in baseball.

Each hit doesn’t just score points—it leaves its mark on sports history.

Cal Raleigh—from a fearsome catcher on the baseball field—has risen to become a globally iconic captain on TIME’s prestigious Top 50 list. This isn’t just a title—it’s a global declaration: a true sports leader has emerged.

The question now is: Will Cal Raleigh stand alongside legendary leaders like Jordan, Brady, or Messi in the minds of global sports fans? For this season—the answer is leaning toward “Yes.”