DEAL ACCEPTED: Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh sign a 4-years contract with Cal Raleigh worth $112 million as their new….see more
Seattle, WA – The Seattle Mariners have made a bold statement about the future of their franchise by signing catcher Cal Raleigh to a massive 4-year, \$112 million contract, officially positioning him as the heart and soul of the team moving forward. This landmark deal not only secures one of the league’s top catchers but also signals the Mariners’ determination to build a World Series-contending team around homegrown talent.
Cal Raleigh, a key figure in Seattle’s rise over the last few seasons, has emerged as a leader both on and off the field. Known for his clutch hitting, strong arm behind the plate, and commanding presence in the clubhouse, Raleigh has quickly become a fan favorite and one of the most respected catchers in Major League Baseball.
Raleigh’s deal comes after months of internal discussions about the franchise’s long-term core. By committing \$112 million over four years, the Mariners are putting their faith in the 27-year-old catcher to guide a young, talented roster into a new era of sustained success.
This is a special day,” said Mariners General Manager Justin Hollander. “Cal embodies everything we want in a player: toughness, intelligence, leadership, and an unrelenting desire to win. He’s earned every bit of this.
Raleigh has steadily improved since making his MLB debut in 2021. He etched his name into Mariners history in 2022 with a walk-off home run that ended the team’s 21-year postseason drought — a moment that instantly made him a legend in Seattle. Since then, he has continued to produce at a high level.
In the 2024 season, Raleigh batted .255 with 29 home runs and 87 RBIs, while boasting a .480 slugging percentage. Defensively, he’s equally valuable — throwing out over 30% of attempted base stealers and expertly managing one of the league’s best young pitching staffs.
This combination of offense, defense, and intangibles made Raleigh one of the most sought-after names in the league — if he were to hit free agency. But the Mariners ensured that would never happen.
The deal gives Raleigh an average annual salary of \$28 million, putting him among the highest-paid catchers in MLB history. It includes performance incentives for All-Star selections, postseason appearances, and Silver Slugger awards. The contract also features a full no-trade clause, giving Raleigh security and control over his future.
By securing the deal now, the Mariners avoid competition from other clubs and reinforce their image as a team serious about retaining elite talent.
During the press conference, a visibly emotional Raleigh expressed gratitude for the franchise and fans who believed in him.
This city means the world to me,” Raleigh said. “From the moment I was drafted, I knew Seattle was special. To wear this jersey and be part of something bigger than myself — it’s an honor I don’t take lightly. I want to win here, and I want to bring a championship to the fans who have supported us through everything.”
With Raleigh now officially the centerpiece of the team, the Mariners are expected to stay aggressive in shaping their roster. With rising stars like Julio Rodríguez Logan Gilbert, and George Kirby also in the mix, the Mariners are building a nucleus capable of competing with baseball’s best for years to come.
More than just a contract, this deal is a message — Seattle is no longer rebuilding. They’re ready to win.
As one fan said online shortly after the announcement, “This is the start of something special. Big Dumper is staying h
ome — and we’re coming for the crown.