Mariners Teammates Arozarena and Raleigh Feud After WBC Handshake Snub

Arozarena calls out Raleigh for refusing to shake his hand during World Baseball Classic matchup

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Seattle Mariners teammates Randy Arozarena and Cal Raleigh found themselves in a public feud after Raleigh refused to shake Arozarena's hand during a World Baseball Classic matchup between Mexico and the United States. Arozarena, who plays for Mexico in the WBC, was left bewildered when Raleigh, representing Team USA, did not reciprocate his attempt at a friendly handshake before Arozarena's at-bat. After the game, Arozarena openly criticized Raleigh, using expletives to express his displeasure with the snub.

Why it matters

The handshake snub between Arozarena and Raleigh, who are teammates on the Mariners, has the potential to create tension and affect their on-field chemistry heading into the 2026 MLB season. Incidents like this, where players fail to show respect to their own teammates, can sometimes linger and impact a team's performance if not addressed properly.

The details

In the World Baseball Classic matchup between Mexico and the United States, Arozarena approached Raleigh, who was behind the plate catching for Team USA, and extended his hand for a handshake. However, Raleigh did not reciprocate the gesture, leaving Arozarena standing there awkwardly before he stepped up to the plate. After the game, Arozarena expressed his frustration with Raleigh's actions, using multiple expletives to criticize his Mariners teammate.

  • The incident occurred during a World Baseball Classic matchup between Mexico and the United States on March 10, 2026.

The players

Randy Arozarena

An outfielder for the Seattle Mariners who was representing Mexico in the World Baseball Classic.

Cal Raleigh

A catcher for the Seattle Mariners who was representing the United States in the World Baseball Classic.

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What they’re saying

“Although he spoke warmly about Raleigh's parents, that's the only kind thing he'd say about his 60-home run catcher. He badmouthed his MLB catcher, using multiple expletives to make clear he was unhappy with the public denial.”

— Randy Arozarena (Newsweek)

What’s next

The Mariners will need to address the tension between Arozarena and Raleigh before the start of the 2026 MLB season to ensure it does not negatively impact the team's performance.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of professional athletes maintaining respect and camaraderie with their teammates, even when representing different countries in international competitions. Unresolved conflicts between teammates can have lasting effects on a team's chemistry and success.