Two Home Runs Push Raleigh Past Bench's Record: 29 And Counting

James

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Post on Jun 22, 2025

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Two Home Runs Push Raleigh Past Bench's Record: 29 and Counting

Raleigh, NC – The Raleigh River Rats are making history. In a stunning display of power, the team's slugger, Javier "The Hammer" Hernandez, smashed two grand slams last night, propelling the River Rats past a legendary record previously held by Hall of Famer Johnny Bench. With 29 home runs on the season, Hernandez is not only rewriting the Raleigh River Rats record books but also sparking a renewed conversation about the all-time single-season home run record.

This breathtaking performance against the Charleston Crabs sent shockwaves through the minor league baseball world. Hernandez's explosive night wasn't just about the sheer number of home runs; it was the way he hit them. Each grand slam showcased incredible power and precision, leaving even seasoned baseball analysts speechless.

Hernandez's Historic Night: A Play-by-Play

The first grand slam came in the bottom of the third, a towering shot that barely cleared the right-field fence. The stadium erupted, sensing a momentous occasion unfolding. The second, however, was truly spectacular. A no-doubter in the seventh, this blast sailed far beyond the center field wall, leaving little doubt as to its distance. The crowd went wild, chanting Hernandez's name throughout the remainder of the game.

This performance surpassed the previous Raleigh River Rats single-season home run record, previously held by legendary player Mark "The Moose" Montgomery, who hit 27 home runs in 1998. But the impact extends far beyond the team’s history. Hernandez's 29 home runs now eclipse the remarkable 28 home runs hit by Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench in his 1968 MVP season, a feat many considered untouchable.

The Road to 29: A Season of Dominance

Hernandez's record-breaking achievement isn't a sudden burst of power; it's the culmination of a season of consistent excellence. Throughout the year, he's displayed remarkable discipline at the plate, combining raw power with an impressive batting average. His consistent performance has earned him numerous accolades and propelled the Raleigh River Rats to the top of their league standings.

• Unmatched Power: Hernandez's strength and ability to consistently hit for power have been key factors in his success.
• Plate Discipline: Unlike some power hitters, Hernandez displays impressive patience at the plate, selecting pitches carefully and driving the ball effectively.
• Team Support: Hernandez has credited his teammates and coaching staff for their support and unwavering belief in his abilities.

What's Next for "The Hammer"?

With still several games remaining in the regular season, the question on everyone's mind is: Can Hernandez continue his historic pace and challenge the all-time single-season major league home run record of 73, held by Barry Bonds? While that feat seems daunting, Hernandez’s current trajectory suggests he's capable of reaching even greater heights. His performance has certainly captured the attention of major league scouts, and a call-up may not be far off.

This is a pivotal moment in Raleigh River Rats history, and indeed, in minor league baseball. Javier Hernandez’s remarkable achievement will be remembered for years to come. Stay tuned for updates as "The Hammer" continues his pursuit of baseball greatness. What are your predictions for Hernandez's final home run total this season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

(Related articles: [Link to article about Minor League Baseball records], [Link to article about Javier Hernandez's previous season])