- Tue Mar 25, 2025 3:01 pm
#9037
The Seattle Mariners are making headlines with the news that they are finalizing a six-year, $105 million extension for catcher Cal Raleigh. This deal not only secures one of the best two-way catchers in the game but also raises some intriguing questions about the Mariners' future and their approach to roster building.
First off, what does this extension mean for the Mariners' strategy moving forward? With Raleigh now locked in, will the front office feel less pressure to spend big in free agency next offseason? Some fans are already speculating that this could be a way for the team to justify a more conservative spending approach. Do you think this is a smart move, or should the Mariners continue to invest heavily in other key positions?
Additionally, Raleigh's performance has been impressive, but catchers often face a steep decline as they age. Given that he’s already 28, how do you see this contract playing out in the later years? Will he maintain his elite defensive skills and power, or could we see a drop-off that makes this deal look questionable down the line?
And let’s not forget about the implications for other players on the roster. With Harry Ford showing promise, how do you think the Mariners will manage their catching situation? Is there a chance Ford could transition to another position, or will he remain a backup catcher?
Lastly, what are your thoughts on the overall value of long-term contracts for catchers? Are they worth the risk, or do you think teams should be more cautious given the history of catchers aging poorly?
Let’s dive into this discussion! What are your predictions for Raleigh's performance over the next six years, and how do you feel about the Mariners' direction with this extension?
First off, what does this extension mean for the Mariners' strategy moving forward? With Raleigh now locked in, will the front office feel less pressure to spend big in free agency next offseason? Some fans are already speculating that this could be a way for the team to justify a more conservative spending approach. Do you think this is a smart move, or should the Mariners continue to invest heavily in other key positions?
Additionally, Raleigh's performance has been impressive, but catchers often face a steep decline as they age. Given that he’s already 28, how do you see this contract playing out in the later years? Will he maintain his elite defensive skills and power, or could we see a drop-off that makes this deal look questionable down the line?
And let’s not forget about the implications for other players on the roster. With Harry Ford showing promise, how do you think the Mariners will manage their catching situation? Is there a chance Ford could transition to another position, or will he remain a backup catcher?
Lastly, what are your thoughts on the overall value of long-term contracts for catchers? Are they worth the risk, or do you think teams should be more cautious given the history of catchers aging poorly?
Let’s dive into this discussion! What are your predictions for Raleigh's performance over the next six years, and how do you feel about the Mariners' direction with this extension?