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Cal Raleigh Maintains Faith Amid Early Mariners' Struggles

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SEATTLE — Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh said Tuesday he has faith in the team despite a slow start to the 2026 season, noting he has used the same swing since age nine and trusts his approach after a 2025 season in which he hit 60 home runs and finished as AL MVP runner-up. This week the Mariners are 10-15 through 25 games, including a 5-2 loss to the Athletics where Raleigh hit a solo home run; his batting average sits at .177 with a .538 OPS, leaving Seattle fourth in the AL West and prompting focus on adjustments by players and coaches in the coming days.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2025: Cal Raleigh hits 60 home runs, setting catcher single-season record.
Late 2025: Raleigh finishes runner-up for the American League MVP award.
Early 2026: Mariners open season and record a 10-15 start through 25 games.
This week (Tuesday): Mariners lose 5-2 to the Athletics; Raleigh records a solo homer but posts overall slump.
At 25 games: Seattle sits fourth in AL West; Astros recorded a 9-16 mark tied for most losses.

Why This Matters to You

If you're a Mariners fan, it's been a rough start. But remember, baseball is a marathon, not a sprint. Raleigh's faith in his team and his own abilities could be a sign of a turnaround. Keep an eye on the next few games.

The Bottom Line

Despite a slow start, Raleigh's track record suggests he can bounce back. His 2025 performance was stellar. So, don't write off the Mariners just yet. Worth forwarding if you know a worried Mariners fan.