Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh has secured his long-term future with the team by signing a six-year, $105 million contract extension. This deal, which includes a $10 million signing bonus, represents a significant commitment from both Raleigh and the Mariners as they continue to build a competitive roster for the future. The contract ensures Raleigh will remain a key part of Seattle’s core through the 2030 season, alongside fellow franchise cornerstone Julio Rodríguez.
The structure of Raleigh’s deal is designed to reward his growth as a player. His salary starts at $1 million in 2025 and gradually increases, reaching $23 million in the final years of the contract. Additionally, the deal includes a full no-trade clause, giving Raleigh security and stability in Seattle. Performance-based incentives could push the total value of the contract to as much as $123 million.
This extension comes after Raleigh’s impressive 2024 season, during which he solidified himself as one of the best catchers in Major League Baseball. He finished the season with a .220 batting average, 34 home runs, and 100 RBIs, providing valuable power in the Mariners’ lineup. Despite the lower batting average, his ability to hit for power and drive in runs made him one of the most productive offensive catchers in the league. On the defensive side, Raleigh was equally impressive, leading all MLB catchers in throwing out base-stealers, with 32 runners caught stealing. His defensive excellence earned him both the Gold Glove and Platinum Glove Awards, reinforcing his status as an elite backstop.
Raleigh’s leadership and ability to manage a pitching staff have also been critical to the Mariners’ success. Seattle’s pitching staff has been among the best in baseball, and much of that success can be attributed to Raleigh’s game-calling and defensive presence behind the plate. His ability to work with young pitchers and guide them through high-pressure situations has been a major asset.
For the Mariners, this deal signals their commitment to keeping homegrown talent and maintaining a competitive core. In recent years, Seattle has invested heavily in young stars, including Rodríguez, who signed a massive extension in 2022. Locking up Raleigh ensures stability at the catcher position, which is one of the most important defensive positions on the field.
The extension is also a reward for Raleigh’s development. Drafted by the Mariners in the third round of the 2018 MLB Draft, Raleigh steadily worked his way through the minor leagues before making his MLB debut in 2021. His breakout season came in 2022 when he hit 27 home runs and helped lead the Mariners to their first playoff appearance in over two decades. Since then, he has continued to improve, cementing himself as a key player for the franchise.
With Raleigh locked in for the foreseeable future, the Mariners now have a strong foundation to continue competing in the American League. His combination of power, defense, and leadership makes him an invaluable part of the team as they chase their first World Series title.