Mariners’ Catcher Cal Raleigh Inks $5.6 Million Deal for Stellar Defense
The Seattle Mariners are gearing up for the upcoming 2025 season, with catcher Cal Raleigh securing a significant $5.6 million contract after a stellar performance, clinching the Platinum Glove award for his exceptional defensive skills.
Seattle Mariners: A Critical Season Ahead
Entering the 2025 season, the Seattle Mariners find themselves at a crucial juncture. Despite possessing one of the most formidable starting pitching rotations in baseball, the team narrowly missed the playoffs by a mere game in 2024.
The Mariners’ starting pitchers, excluding veteran Luis Castillo, are all on cost-effective rookie contracts with several years of team control left. This situation has created a unique window of opportunity for the team to make a significant impact.
Cal Raleigh: A Record-Breaking Season
Cal Raleigh, the Mariners’ catcher, and the team have come to terms on a substantial $5.6 million contract for the 2025 season. Raleigh, in his first year of arbitration eligibility, successfully avoided a hearing by reaching an agreement with the Mariners.
In the 2024 season, Raleigh showcased his prowess at the plate, hitting .220 while achieving career-high figures in home runs (34) and RBIs (100). Notably, his 34 home runs and 93 total home runs in his first four years in the majors set records, surpassing even Hall of Famer Mike Piazza.
Defensive Mastery: Raleigh’s Legacy
Raleigh’s defensive capabilities were equally impressive, if not more so, earning him both the American League Gold Glove and the coveted Platinum Glove. The Platinum Glove is a prestigious accolade bestowed annually upon the best defensive player in both the American and National Leagues.
In summary, Cal Raleigh’s exceptional performance on both offense and defense has solidified his status as a cornerstone player for the Seattle Mariners, setting the stage for an exciting and promising 2025 season.