Cal Raleigh faces difficult 2026 season with Seattle Mariners

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh has faced a difficult 2026 season marked by significant statistical regression and the team missing the postseason. Raleigh, who signed a six-year, $105 million contract extension in March 2025, has struggled with injuries and declining performance metrics. His batting average dropped to .181 with 23 home runs and 68 RBI, representing his lowest production since becoming the team's full-time catcher in 2022.

Following the conclusion of the Mariners' campaign, Raleigh attributed the team's failure to a lack of focus, execution, and energy, as well as poor defensive play and difficulties hitting with runners in scoring position. His comments regarding the team's lack of accountability drew mixed reactions from fans, with some criticizing his performance while others suggested the issues stemmed from managerial or front-office failures.