Team USA Makes Cal Raleigh Decision Before World Baseball Classic Semifinals

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh has had an eventful time at this year’s World Baseball Classic, not just for his on‑field results but also for his actions during games.

Raleigh was invited to play in his first WBC for Team USA after rising into superstardom during the 2025 MLB season. He launched 60 home runs, setting new single-season records for switch hitters, catchers and the Mariners franchise.

He was not just a power threat either, as the 29‑year‑old posted a .247 batting average, .359 on‑base percentage and .948 OPS across 159 games while continuing to play elite defense as a former Gold and Platinum Glove winner.

Seattle Mariners designated hitter Cal Raleigh (29)© Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

However, his performance at the WBC has not matched that level. Raleigh has failed to record a hit in his first three games of the tournament. To make matters worse, he also made headlines for refusing to shake hands with Mariners teammates Randy Arozarena and Josh Naylor when facing them on opposing teams.

Team USA made a decision on Raleigh before Sunday’s semifinal matchup against the Dominican Republic, with the winner advancing to the finals. USA manager Mark DeRosa opted to replace Raleigh in the starting lineup with Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith.

While DeRosa has frequently rotated Smith and Raleigh, if Raleigh had been performing better, he likely would have drawn the start. But that has not been the case. Smith has impressed in his first two games, reaching base four times with a single, a double, two walks and an RBI. Raleigh will still be available off the bench as a pinch‑hit option.

Once the WBC concludes, Raleigh will return to Mariners camp, where his focus will shift to leading Seattle on another deep postseason run and putting his disappointing tournament behind him.

He likely will, considering he is coming off the best season of his career, finishing runner‑up in American League MVP voting and earning his first All‑Star selection. Raleigh has spent his entire career in Seattle since being selected in the third round of the 2018 MLB Draft, and that will not change anytime soon, as he is signed to a six‑year, $105 million extension through 2030.

With expectations higher than ever, Raleigh’s next chapter will be defined by how he responds once he is back in a Mariners uniform.

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Team USA Makes Cal Raleigh Decision Before World Baseball Classic Semifinals

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