Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh finds rhythm after mechanical changes

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh has experienced a surge in performance since mid-August, coinciding with a series of adjustments to his batting mechanics. Raleigh shifted his hand positioning higher and further back to improve his timing and ball contact, a change supported by hitting coach Edgar. Since implementing these adjustments during a series in Milwaukee, Raleigh has recorded a wRC+ of 259 with eight home runs. He has also seen significant increases in both his walk rate and his ability to make hard contact, with a barrel rate exceeding 30%. The catcher began using Iron Maiden’s "The Trooper" as his walk-up music in late August, a suggestion from team clubhouse attendant Tim Kalal. Raleigh plans to continue these adjustments as the team closes out the 2026 season.

• 5:00 PMYahoo Sports — Even in a tough 2026, Cal Raleigh is a Trooper