The Seattle Mariners are heading into their series against the Toronto Blue Jays with Cal Raleigh carrying plenty of momentum.
Seattle recently took a series from the Philadelphia Phillies, and Raleigh was a major reason why. After struggling to match the historic production he delivered during his remarkable 2025 season, the Mariners slugger finally appears to be heating up.
Raleigh dominated the series opener against Philadelphia, launching three home runs in a spectacular performance. He followed that up with another long ball the following day, giving him four homers over his last three games.
Now, with Seattle preparing for Friday night’s series opener against Toronto, manager Dan Wilson has made an adjustment involving his star catcher.
Mariners Make Key Cal Raleigh Lineup Decision
Raleigh started Seattle’s most recent game on Wednesday as the No. 4 hitter and designated hitter.
That will change against Toronto.
On Friday, Raleigh will slide down one spot to fifth in the batting order while returning to his regular position behind the plate. He’ll serve as the starting catcher for right-hander Emerson Hancock.
The move gives Raleigh another opportunity to build on his recent power surge while also returning to his familiar defensive role.
After leading MLB with 60 home runs and 125 RBIs in 2025, Raleigh has faced significantly more challenges this season. But his recent stretch suggests the Mariners’ biggest power threat may finally be finding his rhythm again.
And with Toronto next on the schedule, Seattle will be hoping Raleigh’s hot streak continues.
Mariners’ Full Lineup for August 28
The Seattle Mariners have announced their starting lineup for Friday night’s series opener against the Toronto Blue Jays:
- Randy Arozarena — LF
- Dominic Canzone — DH
- Julio RodrÃguez — CF
- Josh Naylor — 1B
- Cal Raleigh — C
- Cole Young — 2B
- Taylor Ward — RF
- J.P. Crawford — 3B
- Ben Williamson Rodden — SS
- Emerson Hancock — SP
The biggest storyline is Raleigh returning behind the plate while moving from cleanup to the No. 5 spot after his recent power surge.
Raleigh Trying to Turn His Season Around
Despite hitting four home runs over his last three games, Raleigh’s overall 2026 numbers remain well below the standard he established last season.
Entering Friday, he is hitting just .167 in 100 games and 354 at-bats, with 59 hits, 18 home runs and 59 RBIs. His .342 slugging percentage and .625 OPS are also career lows.
Still, his recent stretch provides Seattle with a reason for optimism. After struggling for much of the season, Raleigh has suddenly started showing the power that made him one of baseball’s biggest offensive threats in 2025.
Mariners Still in the AL West Race
Seattle enters Friday at 64-70, six games under .500. Despite the disappointing record, the Mariners remain within striking distance of the postseason.
They’re just 3.0 games behind the AL West division lead and 4.0 games out of a Wild Card spot.
With the season entering its crucial final stretch, Seattle desperately needs Raleigh’s bat to stay hot. A continuation of his recent power surge could give the Mariners a much-needed boost as they attempt to keep their playoff hopes alive.
