Full Breakdown
Seattle Mariners Catcher Cal Raleigh Out Amid Right-Side Soreness
5/5/2026, 4:44:18 AM
Cal Raleigh’s Right-Side Soreness Sidelines Mariners Catcher
Seattle’s everyday catcher Cal Raleigh has been scratched from the lineup for three straight games after reporting soreness in his right side during Friday’s loss to the Kansas City Royals. Manager Dan Wilson labeled the condition “general soreness” and placed Raleigh on a day-to-day status while awaiting imaging.
Recent Performance and Season Context
Raleigh, the 2025 AL MVP runner-up with 60 homers and 125 RBIs, is batting .186 with seven homers and 18 RBIs through 33 games as the Mariners sit 16-18.
Key Personnel and Roster Adjustments
Manager Dan Wilson, the training staff, backup catcher Mitch Garver and call-up Jhonny Pereda have filled in, while Ryan Bliss remains on the taxi squad as a possible IL replacement.
Timeline of Absences
Friday night: right-side discomfort; Saturday: late scratch and MRI; Sunday: still out but feels better after cage work; Monday: remains out as Seattle opens a three-game series vs. the Atlanta Braves.
Injury Evaluation
The MRI results are pending; the team continues to describe the issue as general soreness and has not placed Raleigh on the 10-day injured list. The medical staff is monitoring his core, which he noted is heavily used in catching.
Official Statements
Wilson said the club will have more information after Raleigh works out and expects a decision within a day or two. Raleigh said he is playing it safe, putting ego aside, and feels much better after a morning cage session.
Player Remarks
Raleigh noted the soreness began after Friday’s game, persisted through Saturday, improved by Sunday, and allowed him to resume light batting drills.
Criticism & Fan Concern
A segment of the fanbase voiced concern that losing Raleigh could further dampen Seattle’s offense, especially given his early-season .186 average and the Mariners’ 16-18 record.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Some outlets expect a decision within a day, others cite Tuesday; no source identifies the specific tissue injured.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He’s getting himself into a good spot. He’s testing himself a little more today,” — Dan Wilson, Mariners manager
- “Everything is good, just taking it day by day.” — Cal Raleigh, catcher
- “You’ve got to put your ego and pride aside and think of others,” — Cal Raleigh, catcher
- “He’s going to test it out a little bit today and see where he’s at,” — Dan Wilson, Mariners manager
What's Next
Seattle will host the Braves on Monday night. If Raleigh is placed on the IL, Ryan Bliss would be added to the active roster, and the club has already absorbed left-hander José Suárez after moving Gabe Speier to the 15-day IL.
