Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh is sitting out for the second day due to pain in his right side. The team hasn’t placed him on the injured list yet, as they are waiting for imaging results.
Raleigh started noticing discomfort after Friday’s game. Initially, he thought the soreness was normal after a tough match. But when the pain didn’t fade like usual, he informed the training staff. “It’s better to be safe,” he said. As an athlete, he relies on his core strength, so it’s important to take care of potential issues early on.
Raleigh couldn’t pinpoint a single event that caused the pain. There was no specific throw or catch that triggered it—just general soreness. Mariners manager Dan Wilson mentioned that they completed imaging and are now awaiting feedback before making further decisions.
Today, Raleigh reported feeling “a lot better” compared to the days before. “It’s been encouraging,” he noted, referring to his gradual improvement.
Wilson added, “Cal is making strides. We want to ensure we understand his condition before moving forward.” Raleigh might test his side today to gauge how he feels.
While the team’s concern appears to be mild, they are cautious with injuries like this one. Oblique injuries can linger, as players like Bryce Miller and Luke Raley can attest. Given that it’s still early in the season, the Mariners have their reasons for being careful.
Raleigh himself understands the importance of being prudent. “It’s May,” he stated. “Trust me, I want to play, but considering the team’s long-term goals, taking a day off is for the best.”
Sitting out is tough for someone like Raleigh, who prides himself on his toughness. He’s used to pushing through minor injuries. However, he knows that sometimes he has to set aside his pride for the benefit of the team.
“In the moment, it’s frustrating. But in the long run, it’s worth it. You have to think about everyone else,” he reflected.
Ultimately, Raleigh’s choice to rest now might help him—and the team—avoid bigger issues down the road. A balanced approach to recovery can make a significant difference in an athlete’s performance over the long season.
Additional Insight:
Considering the physical demands of the catcher position, experts emphasize the importance of injury management. According to a study by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, proactive recovery strategies can lead to improved performance and longevity in sports. Participating in preventive care is essential, especially early in the season, to avoid exacerbating injuries.
For more on athlete health and injury prevention, you can explore guidelines from the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine.
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Seattle Mariners Injuries
