As spring training loomed, the Seattle Mariners were poised to introduce a new backup catcher for the 2026 season. However, a timely assist from Cal Raleigh changed the game plan.
Raleigh reached out to Mitch Garver, the Mariners’ 2025 backup, urging him to reconnect with the team. Garver took the advice, contacted GM Justin Hollander, and within a day, he was back on a minor league deal.
Mariners insider Shannon Drayer confirmed on Sunday that Garver will break camp as the team's backup catcher. MLB Network’s Jon Morosi weighed in on the decision, supporting the Mariners' choice to stick with Garver alongside Raleigh.
“He’s a pro,” Morosi remarked. “He’s been a World Series champion and commands respect.”
Garver, now 35, has been with Seattle for two seasons after signing a hefty two-year, $24 million contract-the largest for a free-agent position player under president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto. Initially brought in as the full-time designated hitter, Garver struggled in 2024, batting just .172 with a .627 OPS over 114 games. By 2025, his role shifted to backup catcher and platoon hitter against lefties.
Reflecting on Garver’s first season, Morosi noted, “The pressure might have been too much initially, but in his new role, he delivered some key at-bats, especially in the postseason.”
Now, Garver finds himself in a more favorable position than when he first joined the Mariners. “He’s in a better headspace, and the fans recognize his contributions last October. He’s earned his spot,” Morosi added.
Garver’s presence ties into a key question for manager Dan Wilson and his staff: managing Cal Raleigh’s workload. Raleigh started 119 games and logged 1,072 innings behind the plate in 2025, including a grueling 15-inning game during the playoffs. Plus, he had early commitments with the World Baseball Classic this year.
“Balancing Cal’s workload and giving Garver more opportunities will be a crucial decision for Dan Wilson this season,” Morosi explained.
The Mariners are set for an intriguing season, and Garver’s return adds a layer of depth and experience that could prove invaluable.