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D-backs' Alek Thomas Sends Message Amidst Mariners WBC Controversy
Arizona outfielder appears to back teammate Randy Arozarena after heated incident with Cal Raleigh
Mar. 11, 2026 at 9:39pm
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Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Alek Thomas posted a cryptic message on his Instagram story, appearing to side with his Team Mexico teammate Randy Arozarena amid the recent controversy between Arozarena and Seattle Mariners teammate Cal Raleigh at the World Baseball Classic. Thomas and Arozarena are both representing Mexico in the tournament.
Why it matters
The incident between Arozarena and Raleigh has sparked significant discussion around team dynamics and sportsmanship at the WBC. Thomas' message suggests he is standing with his Mexican teammate, potentially adding another layer to the ongoing saga.
The details
Thomas posted an Instagram story with the text "Take things personally" over a photo of Arozarena and Raleigh, referencing the heated exchange between the two Mariners players after Raleigh declined to shake Arozarena's hand following a game. Arozarena later unleashed a profanity-laced rant directed at Raleigh, though it was unclear if it was serious or in jest. Thomas has not commented publicly on the situation, but his social media post appears to show support for Arozarena.
- The incident between Arozarena and Raleigh occurred during the World Baseball Classic on March 11, 2026.
- Thomas posted the message on his Instagram story on March 11, 2026, the same day as the Arozarena-Raleigh incident.
The players
Alek Thomas
An outfielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks who is representing Team Mexico in the World Baseball Classic.
Randy Arozarena
An outfielder for the Seattle Mariners who is also representing Team Mexico in the World Baseball Classic and was involved in a heated incident with Mariners teammate Cal Raleigh.
Cal Raleigh
A catcher for the Seattle Mariners who was involved in a heated incident with teammate Randy Arozarena at the World Baseball Classic while representing Team USA.
What they’re saying
“Take things personally”
— Alek Thomas
“There's no beef. I love Randy. Like I said, when we're back in Seattle, he's my brother. He's family.”
— Cal Raleigh, Seattle Mariners catcher
What’s next
Team Mexico, featuring Alek Thomas and Randy Arozarena, will play a crucial World Baseball Classic game against Team Italy on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
The takeaway
Thomas' social media message appears to show his support for his Mexican teammate Arozarena amid the ongoing controversy with Mariners teammate Raleigh, adding another layer of intrigue to the heated exchange between the two Seattle players at the World Baseball Classic.
