If there’s one date every MLB team has circled in red it’s whenever the New York Yankees come into town. For the Seattle Mariners, that’s no different. However, as they host the Bronx Bombers in the first of a three-game series, Cal Raleigh has been left out of the lineup.
The Mariners haven’t made any announcement regarding Raleigh that would indicate a physical setback. Thus, his absence from the opening matchup against the Yankees is entirely due to load management.
It wouldn’t make sense for Raleigh’s benching to be a strategic decision, as he is one of Seattle’s best players. Moreover, his switch-hitting skill set means there aren’t many matchups across MLB the Mariners would shy away from. However, he has struggled to start the 2026 season.
As Ryan Weathers makes his first start of the year for the Pinstripes, Raleigh will be watching from the dugout. With Raleigh out of the diamond, Seattle will rely on Brendan Donovan, who is enjoying the best start of his career, and company to lead the Mariners to victory over the uninvited visit from the Bronx.
Welcoming the Yankees to town. #TridentsUp pic.twitter.com/OTkFFr3KU1
— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) March 30, 2026
Rest day for Raleigh
Since Opening Day in 2026, the Mariners haven’t had a day off. Seattle started the season with a four-game series against the Cleveland Guardians, meaning it will play seven straight games before enjoying a rest day. With that in mind, it makes sense why Raleigh has been given a day off on March 30. Still, the fact that it’s in the first game against Aaron Judge and the Yankees raises eyebrows and might send the wrong message around the league.
Last season, Raleigh finished second in AL MVP voting, behind none other than Judge. Fans were looking forward to the first showdown between the two stars, but it will have to wait for the next meeting between the Mariners and Yankees, who will face off again on March 31 and April 1. All signs indicate Raleigh will be good to go then.
Seattle’s replacements for Raleigh
Whether he returns to his catching duties or serves as a designated hitter is a different question. Most likely, he will be back behind the plate. If not, then why didn’t Seattle use Raleigh as a DH from the start against the Yankees? So far this season, Raleigh has only played as a catcher. He might be due soon, though.
Last year, he logged 121 games as a catcher and 38 as a designated hitter—roughly a 4:1 ratio. Thus, his next outing could very well come as a DH, even if it sends mixed signals from the Mariners. As Raleigh misses the opening game of the Yankees-Mariners series, he will be replaced at the catcher’s box by Mitch Garver. Meanwhile, Rob Refsnyder will serve as designated hitter.
