Mariners’ Cal Raleigh surprisingly scratched 1 hour before Royals showdown

The Seattle Mariners are set to take on the Kansas City Royals on Saturday with the goal of advancing to a 17-17 record. Unfortunately, the club will have to do so without Cal Raleigh, as he was scratched from the lineup about an hour before the 9:40 p.m. EST start of the game.

Reports indicate that Raleigh was removed from the lineup without a clear reason as to why, according to Adam Jude of The Seattle Times. The reason may come to light before the contest begins, but for now, the reason is unknown.

“Cal Raleigh has been scratched from the lineup,” reported Jude. “No word yet on why.”

With Raleigh out of Saturday’s game, the Mariners recalled catcher Jhonny Pereda from Triple-A Tacoma, per Jude. However, Mitch Garver will get the start against the Royals while Raleigh sits this one out.

“Mariners have recalled catcher Jhonny Pereda from Triple-A Tacoma,” stated Jude. “Will Wilson headed to the IL with a fractured left thumb. Still no word on Cal Raleigh.”

The 29-year-old catcher has played in every game so far this season. So, this will be his first absence of the 2026 campaign. Hopefully, the situation is not serious, and he returns to action sooner rather than later. It could also just be a rest day for the 2025 home run leader.

Through 129 at-bats this season, Raleigh has recorded 24 hits, seven home runs, and 18 RBIs, giving him a .186 batting average and .272 OBP. His consistency at the plate has been a bit cold to begin the year, but he has been heating up recently, going yard in his previous two games.