In a debut that dreams are made of, 21-year-old infielder Cole Young etched his name into Seattle Mariners lore by delivering a walk-off single in the 11th inning, securing a thrilling 5–4 victory over the Minnesota Twins on May 31, 2025. Young’s game-winning hit not only marked his first Major League Baseball (MLB) hit but also made him the first player in Mariners history to achieve a walk-off plate appearance in his debut game.
A Debut to Remember
Drafted 21st overall in the 2022 MLB Draft, Young’s ascent through the Mariners’ farm system culminated in his promotion from Triple-A Tacoma. In his first MLB game, Young showcased poise beyond his years. With the game tied in the bottom of the 11th inning, he stepped up to the plate and delivered a decisive single down the first-base line, allowing Miles Mastrobuoni to score the winning run.
“It was like the same exact pitch,” Young remarked, referencing a similar situation he encountered in Triple-A just days prior. “I’m just glad I put the ball in play.”
Cal Raleigh’s Power Surge
While Young’s heroics stole the spotlight, catcher Cal Raleigh continued his impressive season by hitting his 22nd home run, tying Shohei Ohtani for the MLB lead . Raleigh’s two-run blast in the first inning ignited the Mariners’ offense and underscored his status as one of the league’s premier power hitters.
Raleigh’s performance has been instrumental in the Mariners’ success this season. His consistent power at the plate provides a formidable presence in the lineup, and his leadership behind the plate has been invaluable to the pitching staff.
Game Recap: A Rollercoaster Affair
The game was a back-and-forth battle. The Twins jumped to an early 3–0 lead, highlighted by a two-run homer from Matt Wallner. The Mariners responded with home runs from Raleigh and J.P. Crawford, eventually taking a 4–3 lead. However, a throwing error in the ninth inning allowed the Twins to tie the game, pushing it into extra innings.
Mariners reliever Collin Snider held the Twins scoreless in the 10th and 11th innings, setting the stage for Young’s walk-off single. The victory snapped a three-game losing streak for Seattle and propelled them back atop the American League West standings.
Looking Ahead
Young’s memorable debut adds a new chapter to the Mariners’ season narrative. As the team continues its pursuit of postseason success, contributions from emerging talents like Young, combined with the steady performance of veterans like Raleigh, will be crucial.
The Mariners’ blend of youthful energy and experienced leadership positions them as formidable contenders in the American League. Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how Young’s career unfolds following his storybook debut.