Mariners Bolster Catcher Depth with Garver Reunion

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The Seattle Mariners have signed veteran catcher and designated hitter Mitch Garver to a minor league contract, adding depth to their catching corps. Garver, who previously played for the Mariners from 2024-2025, will compete with Andrew Knizner for the backup catcher role behind starter Cal Raleigh. The Mariners had been seeking catching depth this offseason after trading away top prospect Harry Ford.

Why it matters

The Mariners' catching situation has become more complex with Garver's return, as he and Knizner vie for the backup role. This competition could have implications for the team's roster construction and playing time decisions throughout the 2026 season.

The details

Garver will earn $2.25 million if he makes the Mariners' active roster at any point in 2026. He and Knizner, who signed a one-year, $1 million deal in December, are the top candidates to back up Raleigh. Garver has the edge in offensive production against left-handed pitching, while Knizner is slightly better defensively. The Mariners carried three catchers for part of last season, but that may not be feasible in 2026 given their roster construction.

• Garver is slated to report to the Peoria Sports Complex on Thursday to undergo a physical, after which his minor league contract will become official.
• Garver has opt-out clauses in his contract on March 21, May 1, and June 1, meaning the Mariners may have to make a decision on him by Opening Day.

What’s next

The Mariners will have to decide whether to add Garver to their active roster by Opening Day or risk losing him to another team, as he has opt-out clauses in his contract.