Cal Raleigh Breaks Mariners Home Run Record as Seattle Tops Astros 6-4, Extends AL West Lead

Saturday, September 20th, 2025

Seattle Mariners Defeat Houston Astros 6-4 to Secure AL West Lead

The Seattle Mariners claimed a crucial 6-4 victory over the Houston Astros on Saturday night, seizing a two-game advantage atop the American League West and ensuring a season series win over Houston.

Cal Raleigh Surpasses Ken Griffey Jr. with Record 57th Home Run

Cal Raleigh delivered a historic performance, blasting his 57th home run of the season to surpass the legendary Ken Griffey Jr. for Seattle’s single-season home run record. Raleigh’s milestone homer came in the third inning, as he sent a 95.5-mph sinker from Astros starter Framber Valdez deep into the right-center bullpen, giving the Mariners a 3-0 lead.

George Kirby Shines on the Mound

Mariners starter George Kirby (10-7) turned in a masterful outing, scattering five hits across six scoreless innings and striking out seven batters. Kirby’s dominance set the tone for a Seattle win and extended their remarkable streak, with the team now winning 13 of their last 14 games.

Mariners Build Early Lead, Survive Late Astros Rally

Seattle built a commanding 6-0 advantage heading into the late innings. Dominic Canzone contributed a two-run single in the fifth after Valdez was pulled with the bases loaded, and an earlier bases-loaded walk to Josh Naylor pushed the score to 4-0. Valdez (12-11) endured his fourth consecutive loss, allowing five runs in 4 2/3 innings.

Houston threatened a dramatic comeback in the seventh when Jeremy Peña blasted a grand slam off Carlos Vargas, cutting the deficit to 6-4. The Astros loaded the bases again in the eighth, but Eduard Bazardo and Gabe Speier combined for key strikeouts to keep Seattle ahead.

Andrés Muñoz Locks Down 37th Save, Robles’ Game-Saving Catch

Seattle closer Andrés Muñoz encountered trouble in the ninth by plunking Jake Meyers and walking Jeremy Peña. But an outstanding diving catch by Victor Robles turned a potential game-tying hit from Carlos Correa into a double play, sealing Muñoz’s 37th save and the Mariners’ win.

Astros’ Offensive Struggles Continue

Despite multiple opportunities, the Astros were limited to just one hit in nine chances with runners in scoring position. Manager Joe Espada and hitting coach Troy Snitker were ejected after arguing balls and strikes in the fifth inning, further compounding Houston’s frustrations.

What’s Next

The series finale is scheduled for Sunday night, with Seattle right-hander Logan Gilbert (5-6, 3.53 ERA) set to face Houston’s Jason Alexander (4-1, 4.04 ERA).

Key Moment

Victor Robles delivered the defensive play of the game, making a diving catch in the ninth inning to start a game-ending double play and protect Seattle's narrow lead.

Key Stat

Houston went 1 for 9 with runners in scoring position, highlighting their struggles to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

In summary

The Seattle Mariners showcased powerful offense and clutch pitching to defeat the Houston Astros 6-4, with Cal Raleigh setting a new franchise home run record and George Kirby dominating on the mound. The win solidifies Seattle’s lead in the AL West and emphasizes their late-season momentum, while the Astros’ offensive struggles and critical defensive plays defined the contest. Fans can look forward to a pivotal series finale as postseason positioning intensifies.

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