Mariners Catcher Cal Raleigh Exceeds Expectations in 2026

After a historic 2025 season, the young star is proving his breakout was no fluke.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:54pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a baseball game, with players' bodies and the ball broken down into abstract shapes and planes.Raleigh's sustained excellence at the plate and behind the dish has the Mariners optimistic about their young star catcher's future.Seattle Today

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh is building on his impressive 2025 campaign, which saw him finish as the AL MVP runner-up after hitting a single-season record 60 home runs for a catcher. Raleigh's continued strong play in 2026 has shown that his breakout was not a one-year anomaly, but rather the emergence of a new superstar in Major League Baseball.

Why it matters

Raleigh's success is a bright spot for the Mariners, who have struggled to field a consistent contender in recent years. His ability to back up his historic 2025 numbers has raised expectations for the young catcher and the Mariners' future.

The details

In 2025, Raleigh set the single-season home run record for catchers, blasting 60 long balls. This year, he has continued to produce at an elite level, further cementing his status as one of the game's top young talents.

  • Raleigh finished as the 2025 AL MVP runner-up.
  • In the 2026 season, Raleigh is building on his historic 2025 campaign.

The players

Cal Raleigh

A 25-year-old catcher for the Seattle Mariners who emerged as a superstar in 2025 and is continuing his strong play in 2026.

Seattle Mariners

A Major League Baseball team based in Seattle, Washington that has struggled to field a consistent contender in recent years but is now seeing hope in the form of young star catcher Cal Raleigh.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Cal Raleigh is proving that his 2025 season was no fluke. He's a special talent who is only going to get better.”

— Jim Bowden, MLB Analyst

“Raleigh's ability to back up his historic numbers is a testament to his work ethic and dedication. He's a true five-tool player who is only scratching the surface of his potential.”

— Dave Sims, Mariners Play-by-Play Announcer

What’s next

Raleigh will look to continue his strong play as the Mariners push for a playoff berth in the second half of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Cal Raleigh's breakout 2025 campaign was no fluke, as the young catcher is proving himself to be a true superstar in the making. His continued excellence has raised expectations for both himself and the Mariners, who are hoping Raleigh can lead them back to the postseason.