If there’s one thing we know about Pat McAfee, it’s that he has no filter, and he proved it once again on the national stage. During the 2025 Home Run Derby in Atlanta, the famous former NFL player was in charge of the introductions and when it was the turn of Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, he could not resist referring to his viral nickname. What followed left many viewers and attendees at Truist Park somewhere between surprise and laughter.
The ESPN analyst waded into the debate that has been circulating around the internet and MLB circles, using an introduction that became the most talked about topic of the night. In a family-friendly event, McAfee launched headlong into referring to the physical attribute that has given Raleigh his famous nickname, “Big Dumper”.
The presentation that went viral
With his characteristic energetic and uncensored style, McAfee introduced Raleigh in a way that few expected to hear on national television. The shout that echoed around the stadium was: “WITH THE FATTEST ASS IN ALL OF PROFESSIONAL SPORTS… ‘BIG DUMPER’ CAL RALEIGH!”
The boldness of the statement took many by surprise. Fans at home tuning into the ESPN broadcast surely didn’t expect such a presentation, yet for McAfee’s followers, it was simply another moment that defines his style and they were carried away with laughter at an unexpected and comical moment that was a topic on social media.
McAfee’s introduction was not a random comment. The nickname “Big Dumper” has a history and an origin that has become popular among baseball fans. This nickname, which refers to Cal Raleigh’s backside, was made by his former teammate Jarred Kelenic in 2020 and has been affectionately adopted by Mariners fans. Over time, Raleigh himself has embraced the nickname, acknowledging that it is part of his identity as a player.
Social media debate
The reaction on social media was mixed, but dominant. While some expressed their amazement at McAfee’s lack of filter on a family broadcast, most sports fans celebrated it. On X, there were many comments that focused on how comical the moment was, however, there were also people who took it differently and between surprise and disgust, could not believe what had happened live on television.
In the end, Pat McAfee did the job his way, proving that he can capture the energy of an event and despite criticism, his style is what many fans today desire and constantly applaud.
Read the full article here
