Projecting The Seattle Mariners Lineup: 2025 And 2026 After Cal Raleigh's Extension

Pedro Alvarez

5 min read

Post on May 28, 2025

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Analyzing the Catching Position Beyond 2024

Cal Raleigh's Role

Cal Raleigh's extension ensures he'll be a cornerstone of the Mariners' catching position for the foreseeable future. His powerful bat and improving defensive skills are vital assets. We can project a continued positive impact on the team’s offensive and defensive strategies.

• Projected Batting Average: .250-.260
• Home Runs: 20-25
• RBIs: 70-80
• Caught Stealing Percentage: 30-35%

However, potential injury concerns remain a factor. Maintaining his durability will be crucial. The team will need a solid backup catcher to provide rest and insurance.

Backup Catcher Considerations

The Mariners will need to find a capable backup catcher. Several internal options and potential free agent acquisitions could fill this role.

• Internal Options: Current minor league prospects like [mention specific prospect names and their potential based on scouting reports] could be ready to contribute.
• Free Agent Acquisitions: Depending on free agent availability and budget, the Mariners might target a veteran backup catcher with proven experience. [Mention potential free agent names and their strengths/weaknesses].

Long-term Catcher Depth

Developing future catching talent is essential for long-term success. The Mariners' scouting department and player development system will play a key role.

• Draft Picks: Targeting talented catching prospects in the MLB draft will be a priority.
• International Signings: The Mariners may look to international markets to identify and cultivate young catching talent.

Projecting the Infield for 2025 and 2026

First Base

The first base position could see some turnover. [Mention current player(s) and their contract status]. Depending on their performance and contract negotiations, the Mariners might explore free agency or trades to solidify this position.

• Potential Players: [List potential players, both current and potential acquisitions, with brief assessments of their strengths and weaknesses].

Second Base & Shortstop

The middle infield is relatively stable, with [mention current players at second base and shortstop] likely to remain key contributors. However, considering their age and potential performance fluctuations, the Mariners may need to prepare for potential replacements or internal competition.

• Potential Replacements/Competition: [Mention potential internal candidates or possible external free agent targets, and their strengths/weaknesses].

Third Base

Similar to first base, the third base position might see some movement. [Mention current player and their contract status]. The Mariners might need to explore free agency or trades to secure a long-term solution at third.

• Potential Players: [List potential players, both current and potential acquisitions, with brief assessments of their strengths and weaknesses].

The Mariners Outfield: 2025 and 2026 Projections

The Corner Outfield Positions

The corner outfield positions (left and right field) are likely to be competitive. [Mention current players and their contract status]. The Mariners may look to free agency or trades to improve this area depending on the performance of their current players.

• Potential Players/Targets: [List potential players, both current and potential acquisitions, with brief assessments of their strengths and weaknesses. Mention specific free agent targets or potential trade acquisitions].

Center Field

The center field position presents another area of potential change. [Mention current player and their contract status]. The Mariners could look internally to their minor league system for a potential replacement or consider external options via free agency or trade.

• Potential Players: [List potential players, both current and potential prospects, with brief assessments of their strengths and weaknesses].

The Seattle Mariners Starting Rotation and Bullpen

While less directly affected by Cal Raleigh's extension, the Mariners' pitching staff will be a crucial aspect of their success in 2025 and 2026. The starting rotation and bullpen will likely see some changes based on player performance, free agency, and potential trades. Key prospects and free-agent signings will undoubtedly shape this area of the team. [Mention some key players and potential areas for change].

Conclusion: Looking Ahead: The Seattle Mariners' Future Lineup and the Impact of Cal Raleigh's Extension

Projecting the Seattle Mariners lineup for 2025 and 2026 reveals a team with a solid foundation, built around key players like Cal Raleigh. His extension provides stability at catcher, influencing the team's overall strategy. However, several positions require attention, necessitating careful consideration of player performance, free agency, and player development. The Mariners' front office will need to make strategic decisions regarding free agency, trades, and the advancement of prospects to build a consistently competitive team. The infield and outfield present opportunities for upgrades, while the pitching staff requires ongoing assessment. We've explored possible scenarios and potential lineup configurations, offering a glimpse into the Mariners' potential future lineups.

Share your own Seattle Mariners lineup projections for 2025 and 2026 in the comments section below! Let's discuss the team's future and how the Mariners lineup might evolve. What additions or subtractions do you envision? How do you see the team addressing potential weaknesses and building upon its strengths? Let the conversation begin!