Mariners’ Raleigh hits grand slam in rehab assignment ahead of projected return

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh delivered a grand slam during a rehab assignment with the Triple-A Tacoma Rainiers on Tuesday, contributing to a 15-3 victory over the Albuquerque Isotopes. The bases-clearing blast, launched off a low breaking ball on the inside corner in the fifth inning, provided a notable highlight for the slugging All-Star as he works his way back into game shape.

Raleigh, the reigning MLB home run champion, has been on the injured list since May 14 with an oblique strain. This marks the first time in his career that he has been placed on the IL. Prior to his injury, Raleigh was navigating a significant offensive slump, batting .161/.243/.317 with seven home runs and 18 RBI in 41 games during the 2026 season, a period that included an 0-for-38 streak at the plate.

The catcher began his rehabilitation with live games on Sunday with High-A Everett, where he went 1-for-3 with a single. He subsequently joined the Triple-A Rainiers for Tuesday’s contest, offering a glimpse of his power potential to the fans in attendance. The Mariners are viewing the performance as a positive indicator ahead of his planned reintegration into the major league club.

Per MLB.com, Raleigh is expected to return to the Seattle Mariners on June 16 for a homestand against the Baltimore Orioles, barring any setbacks. The organisation is hopeful that a return to anywhere close to his previous form will bolster their lineup in what is shaping up to be another competitive race for the AL West crown.

Despite Raleigh’s struggles and absence from the lineup since mid-May, the Mariners entered Tuesday in first place in the AL West at 35-32, holding a two-game lead over the Texas Rangers. Raleigh’s 60 home runs in 2025 were instrumental in helping the Mariners win the AL West crown and reach the ALCS, and his return is seen as vital for maintaining their standing in the tight divisional race.