Winning Talent: Lessons from Cal Raleigh’s Remarkable Season
by Ross Fletcher, Partner
Before making the move into the world of executive search, I had the privilege of spending a couple of decades in a broadcast booth. I developed a deep appreciation for the rhythms of sport — its quiet stretches, its sudden drama, and the rare, transcendent moments that linger long after the crowd has gone home. Living in Seattle, I’ve had the privilege of a front row seat for plenty of moments that have captured this city’s imagination, but even with that backdrop, Cal Raleigh’s historic journey to 60 home runs with the Mariners this season stands apart.
There’s something quietly astonishing about Raleigh. He isn’t the most celebrated name in baseball, nor the most obvious star. But through a mix of resilience, consistency, and sheer skill and determination, he has reached a milestone that even legends struggle to approach. It’s a reminder that talent, when nurtured and matched with the right opportunity, can surprise everyone — sometimes even the person swinging the bat.
At Herd Freed Hartz, our world is far removed from home plate, yet echoes of Raleigh’s story still resonate. As executive search partners, we dig deep to spot the talent and potential that will drive business success, align culture, and then watch it thrive in the right environment. Just as a team builds around the players who can deliver in the long season ahead, organizations succeed when they place trust in leaders whose performance and character shine through.
As a Brit who’s been fortunate to make Seattle home, I find myself quietly proud of the way this city celebrates its heroes — not just for the highlights, but for the commitment and grit behind them. For me, Raleigh’s season is a reminder of why “winning talent” matters. It’s not about chasing the flashiest star, but about recognizing the individual whose presence lifts the whole team, game after game.
In baseball, as in business, those are the victories that endure.