The Seattle Mariners are continuing to tweak their roster even as spring training officially gets underway, bringing back a familiar name to strengthen their catching depth. Seattle has re-signed veteran catcher to a minor league contract, giving the club additional coverage behind the plate as Cactus League play begins.
Although the offseason has wrapped up and exhibition games are just days away, the Mariners clearly felt there was still room to reinforce certain areas of the roster. Garver’s return may not come with the fanfare of a major signing, but it provides valuable insurance at a key position during a busy stretch of camp.
Garver’s first stint in Seattle did not fully match the expectations that accompanied the two-year, $24 million contract he signed on Christmas Eve in 2023. Over the course of that deal, his production was inconsistent, and he ultimately settled into a backup role behind All-Star catcher Cal Raleigh during the 2025 season. When the time came to decide on a mutual option, the Mariners chose to decline it, making him a free agent despite a handful of memorable postseason contributions.
During the winter, Seattle reshaped its catching depth by adding Andrew Knizner and Jhonny Pereda to the 40-man roster. With Knizner out of minor league options, he appears to have an inside track on the backup job entering camp. That reality seemingly leaves Garver competing from the outside, needing a strong spring performance to force his way back into the conversation for a major league role.
However, circumstances could work in his favor. Raleigh is set to represent Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, which will leave Seattle temporarily short on experienced backstops for a significant portion of spring training. Garver’s familiarity with the pitching staff gives him a distinct advantage during that window. High-leverage arms such as Andrés Muñoz and George Kirby have previously praised Garver’s preparation and game-calling, crediting him for helping them execute at a high level.
Details of Garver’s minor league agreement have not been publicly disclosed, including whether it contains an opt-out clause. If he does not make the Opening Day roster, remaining in the organization at Triple-A Tacoma remains a realistic possibility. The Rainiers will also need experienced catchers to handle developing pitchers, and Garver’s presence could prove beneficial at that level.
It is somewhat surprising that Garver did not secure a guaranteed major league deal elsewhere. Even amid his recent struggles, he remained effective against left-handed pitching and adjusted well after the initial plan to use him primarily as a designated hitter did not pan out. Ultimately, his return gives Seattle dependable depth, veteran leadership, and a steady hand behind the plate as the club prepares for another competitive season.
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