Catcher Cal Raleigh just signed a six-year deal worth $105 million with the Seattle Mariners, according to ESPN. This contract ties him to the team that drafted him, ensuring he will be part of the Mariners’ future into the next decade.
At 28, Raleigh is known for his great defense and strong hitting from both sides of the plate. He made quite an impression on Mariners fans with his clutch performances. After becoming the main catcher in 2022, he quickly earned recognition as one of the best in the league.
This new contract kicks off this season and keeps him with the team for three extra years, buying out his free agency. Raleigh was set to make $5.6 million as he entered arbitration for the first time this year.
Fans might know him by his nickname, "Big Dumper," which he got due to his noticeable physique. In 2024, he posted impressive stats with a batting average of .220 and a slugging percentage of .436, along with 34 home runs and 100 RBIs. His defensive skills have not gone unnoticed; he earned both the American League Gold Glove and the Platinum Glove, which is awarded to the top defensive player in each league.
Raleigh is also becoming a key leader for the Mariners as they aim to win the AL West for the first time since 2001. The team is hoping to build on their playoff appearance in 2022, even though they fell short in 2023 and 2024, achieving 88 and 85 wins respectively.
The Mariners have built a strong foundation with homegrown pitching talent. They’ve only given long-term contracts to Raleigh and center fielder Julio Rodriguez, who is locked in through 2029, with a player option extending to 2034.
Looking ahead, if their farm system continues to thrive, the Mariners could have a bright future. Recent statistics show that their system is among the best in baseball. They’re nurturing a range of talent, including noteworthy prospects like shortstop Cole Emerson and two new pitchers from the 2024 draft, Jurrangelo Cijntje, a unique switch pitcher, and right-hander Ryan Sloan.
With Raleigh on board for the long haul, the Mariners are banking on building a competitive team that can consistently challenge for the division title in the coming years. This could mark a new era for the franchise and its loyal fans. For further details on MLB team rankings and player statistics, you can check ESPN or Baseball Reference.
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