The Mariners are looking like geniuses for this pre-season move
The Seattle Mariners weren’t the most proactive MLB team during the offseason, but a decision from spring training is proving to be a stroke of genius.
When most people think about the Seattle Mariners, the first thing that comes to mind is their pitching staff. Without question, they have one of the best rotations in baseball, and most of their starters would be the ace on any other team.
It’s so good that many have argued they should trade one in order to address the other problems on the roster, specifically to acquire another bat for the lineup.
Most Impressive Teams and Early-Season A’s Storylines w/ Jessica Kleinschmidt
When most people think about the Seattle Mariners, the first thing that comes to mind is their pitching staff. Without question, they have one of the best rotations in baseball, and most of their starters would be the ace on any other team.
It’s so good that many have argued they should trade one in order to address the other problems on the roster, specifically to acquire another bat for the lineup.
While the pitching staff is the best in baseball, the lineup might be one of the worst. The team ranks middle of the pack or worse in most offensive categories over the last several seasons. It’s been seen as what could hold Seattle back from making a run at the division.
However, despite the lackluster team numbers, catcher Cal Raleigh has been as good as ever here in 2025.
How Cal Raleigh’s hot start makes his extension look genius
Before the season started, the Mariners gave Raleigh a six-year extension worth $105 million. There is also an option for a seventh year at an extra $20 million.
Raleigh has rewarded Seattle for their confidence in him by slashing .233/.333/.593 with nine home runs, 15 RBIs, a 175 OPS+, and a wRC+ of 167. This is thanks in large part to him being red hot over the past 15 games, slashing .290/.380/.742 with eight home runs and 14 RBIs.
