Mariners News
The Mariners have plenty of representation in tonight’s Midsummer Classic. Seattle has four players that will take part in the MLB All-Star Game, including starting catcher Cal Raleigh.
Besides him, pitchers Bryan Woo and Andres Munoz will look to make their mark in Atlanta, along with outfielder Randy Arozarena. They also had a fifth All-Star selection in Julio Rodriguez, though he opted to sit out of the game. It’s the most All-Stars the Mariners have had since 2003.
Detroit’s Tarik Skubal is making the start for the American League, while Pittsburgh’s Paul Skenes will start on the mound for the National League. Coverage begins at 4:00 and first pitch is at 5 on KPUG.
It was a game of inches that helped Cal Raleigh continue his historic first half of the season. The “Big Dumper” hit 54 homers last night on his way to becoming the first catcher ever to win the Home Run Derby. He was nearly eliminated in the first round, but won the tiebreaker against Athletics outfielder Brent Rooker by having his longest home run travel less than a single inch farther. He went on to outslug Rays infielder Junior Caminero by three homers to be crowned champion, joining Ken Griffey Jr. as the only Mariners to ever win the derby.
Cal won with his father pitching to him and his 15-year-old brother catching behind the plate. Hours before the derby, Cal also announced that he’ll play for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Prep Sports News
A local prep baseball standout is heading to the Mariners’ division rival. The Houston Astros selected third baseman and recent Mount Vernon graduate Xavier Neyens with the 21st overall pick in the MLB Draft.
Neyens helped lead Mount Vernon to its first state baseball championship in over 30 years last spring. He now becomes the first hitter from Washington to go in the first round since Corbin Carroll in 2019 and just the 10th in the history of the draft.
Bells News
The All-Star break festivities are just getting underway for the Bellingham Bells. They’re hosting all the action at Joe Martin Field for the second straight year, starting with the Community Champions Game at 6:35 tonight. Athletes from the Max Higbee Center will compete alongside West Coast League All-Stars in the fun-filled event.
Tomorrow, the Fan Fest takes place from 3-6 pm and includes a pro style skills showcase at 4. The All-Star Game begins at 6:35 and includes post-game fireworks.
The Bells have six All-Stars selections who will get a chance to play among the best in the WCL.
