Cal Raleigh is staying in Seattle for the long-term. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images)
One of the game’s best all-around catchers is staying with the Seattle Mariners. Cal Raleigh will reportedly sign a six-year, $105 million extension to remain in Seattle, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
Raleigh, 28, is coming off a season in which he hit .220/.312/.436, with 34 home runs. Since taking over as the team’s primary catcher in 2022, Raleigh — affectionately nicknamed “Big Dumper” — has been one of the most prolific power hitters at the position. His 76 home runs since then is the most among catchers. Philadelphia Phillies veteran J.T. Realmuto ranks second on that list with 56 home runs.
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While Raleigh hasn’t posted high batting averages, his immense power has kept him afloat on offense. Raleigh has a career 112 OPS+, meaning his offensive output has been 12 percent better than the league average. His pop is even more impressive at T-Mobile Park, one of the most pitcher-friendly parks in the majors.
Raleigh’s real value, however, is his defense. Raleigh has emerged as one of the best defensive catchers in the game. He’s regarded as a tremendous pitch framer, which led to Raleigh winning a Gold Glove in 2024. Raleigh also won a Platinum Glove — awarded to the best overall fielder in each league — thanks to his performance behind the plate.
The new contract will kick in this season, per Passan. Raleigh, who was arbitration-eligible in both 2026 and 2027, will now receive a guaranteed figure from the team during those seasons. Raleigh was set to hit the free-agent market following the 2027 season, but the new deal will keep him in Seattle through the 2030 MLB season.
The deal reportedly contains incentives that could push its total cost to $123 million, according to Ryan Divish of the Seattle Times.
This story will be updated.