The Seattle Mariners are still searching for the momentum that carried them through the 2025 MLB season, but the start to the 2026 campaign has been far more difficult than expected. Heading into Memorial Day, Seattle sits at 25-29 and trails in the American League West standings, creating growing concern around a team that entered the season with high expectations.
One of the biggest storylines surrounding the Mariners has been the struggles and injury status of star catcher Cal Raleigh. After finishing second in American League MVP voting last year, Raleigh has endured a disappointing beginning to the new season both statistically and physically. Before being sidelined with a right oblique strain, Raleigh was batting just .161 with seven home runs and 18 RBIs. His offensive struggles included a shocking 0-for-38 hitless streak, something few could have predicted from one of the league’s premier power-hitting catchers.
Raleigh’s injury forced the Mariners to place him on the injured list for the first time in his major league career. Although the team has not established a definitive timetable for his return, manager Dan Wilson shared a positive update regarding the catcher’s rehabilitation progress. According to MLB.com reporter Daniel Kramer, Raleigh was scheduled to begin light catching activities on Monday, marking the first baseball-related work he has done since being placed on the injured list.
Wilson indicated that Raleigh will continue his recovery in Arizona for the time being, suggesting the organization is taking a cautious approach with one of its most valuable players. While the Mariners are hopeful he can return sooner rather than later, the club appears focused on ensuring the injury fully heals before bringing him back into the lineup.
The absence of Raleigh has created challenges for Seattle behind the plate. In his place, the Mariners have relied on Jhonny Pereda and veteran Mitch Garver to split catching duties. However, neither player has been able to provide much offensive production, further highlighting how important Raleigh is to the team’s lineup and overall success. Seattle’s offense has struggled for consistency throughout the early portion of the season, and losing one of its biggest power threats has only intensified those issues.
Despite the rough start, Wilson remains optimistic about Raleigh’s outlook moving forward. Shortly after the injury was announced, the manager emphasized that the situation could have been far worse and noted there is still a large portion of the season remaining once Raleigh returns to full health. Wilson described that as the “silver lining” of the injury, believing the star catcher will still have plenty of time to make a major impact later in the year.
The timing of the injury may also provide Raleigh with an opportunity to mentally reset after his difficult offensive slump. Sometimes stepping away from game action can help players refocus and regain confidence, especially after extended struggles at the plate. For Raleigh, the rehab period could allow him to recover physically while also clearing his mind before returning to competition.
Although the Mariners are trying to stay afloat without one of their franchise players, the organization clearly understands how critical Raleigh is to its postseason hopes. If he can return healthy and rediscover the form that made him one of baseball’s most dangerous catchers in 2025, Seattle could still turn its season around during the summer months. For now, the club continues monitoring his recovery process closely while hoping for steady progress in Arizona.
Leave a Reply