Mariners fans attending one of this weekend’s games, during which the organization will honor veteran broadcaster Rick Rizzs, might notice Cal Raleigh wearing something a little bit different behind home plate.
In a social-media clip released on Tuesday, Raleigh surprised Rizzs, who will retire at the end of this season after 41 seasons with the Mariners, with a special gift.
Raleigh was shown walking into radio booth 3 at T-Mobile Park with a large cardboard box for Rizzs. The catcher asked Rizzs if he had any guesses of what was in the box.
“I have no idea,” Rizzs replied.
A camera angle showed Rizzs’ reactions to what was inside as Raleigh opened it up. “Oh my gosh,” Rizzs said, covering his mouth.
Raleigh pulled out a custom catcher’s chest protector with various photos from Rizzs’ career collaged across the front.
The collage included photos of Rizzs with Ken Griffey Jr. and Dave Niehaus, with “Rizzs” written in white letters at the top above the Rawlings logo. Other writing included “41 seasons,” a nod to Rizzs’ long tenure with the organization, and “Holy smokes,” the broadcaster’s signature phrase.
“After I’m done wearing it you get to keep it,” Raleigh told Rizzs in the video. Raleigh explained that he plans to wear it this weekend during the series against the Angels at T-Mobile Park during which the Mariners plan to honor Rizzs.
The clip ended with Rizzs hugging Raleigh and telling him, “You’re the best.”