Why is Cal Raleigh not starting for Team USA in the WBC?
Will Smith was chosen as the starting catcher for the semifinal game against the Dominican Republic.
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ARTICLE DETAIL
Cal Raleigh's Struggles at the World Baseball Classic | Yankees Adjust Aaron Judge Role Amid Lineup Changes | Red Sox Eye Blockbuster Trade for Yordan Alvarez to Fuel Offense | JJ Wetherholt’s Little League Grand Slam Lifts Cardinals Over Padres | Pirates Recall Nick Yorke, Jake Mangum Placed on Injured List | Blake Snell Set for Dodgers Debut as Tyler Glasnow Lands on IL | JJ Wetherholt's Little League Grand Slam: Cardinals vs. Padres | JJ Wetherholt's Little League Grand Slam Highlights Cardinals vs. Padres Game | Jose Azocar Elects Free Agency After Braves Release | Cal Raleigh's Struggles at the World Baseball Classic | Yankees Adjust Aaron Judge Role Amid Lineup Changes | Red Sox Eye Blockbuster Trade for Yordan Alvarez to Fuel Offense | JJ Wetherholt’s Little League Grand Slam Lifts Cardinals Over Padres | Pirates Recall Nick Yorke, Jake Mangum Placed on Injured List | Blake Snell Set for Dodgers Debut as Tyler Glasnow Lands on IL | JJ Wetherholt's Little League Grand Slam: Cardinals vs. Padres | JJ Wetherholt's Little League Grand Slam Highlights Cardinals vs. Padres Game | Jose Azocar Elects Free Agency After Braves Release
MLB / World Baseball Classic
Cal Raleigh's Struggles at the World Baseball Classic
Seattle Mariners fans have reason to be concerned about Cal Raleigh's performance in the World Baseball Classic (WBC). Despite high expectations following a strong 2025 season, Raleigh has struggled at the plate, raising questions about his...
Key Insights
- Cal Raleigh is hitless in nine at-bats for Team USA in the WBC, though he has drawn four walks and scored four runs.
- Fox Sports announcer Joe Davis noted that Raleigh said his swing is not in a great place, which is not ideal for Mariners fans to hear.
- Despite the slow start, some observers remain optimistic, pointing to Raleigh's ability to bounce back from a low .186 batting average last spring to hit 60 home runs in the 2025 season.
- Will Smith was chosen to start at catcher for Team USA over Raleigh in the semifinal game against the Dominican Republic.
- **Why this matters:** Raleigh's struggles could indicate potential issues with his swing that may affect his performance in the upcoming MLB season, causing concern for Mariners fans.
In-Depth Analysis
Cal Raleigh entered the World Baseball Classic with high expectations after a stellar 2025 season with the Seattle Mariners. However, his performance has been underwhelming, with a hitless streak and concerns raised about his swing.
While it's not unusual for players to experience such slumps during this time of year, the news is unsettling for Mariners fans, who are eager to see Raleigh build on his previous success.
Some analysts suggest that Raleigh's 2025 season was an outlier and that regression is likely. Others remain optimistic, highlighting his past ability to overcome slow starts and his overall explosive potential at the plate. Despite his struggles, projections still estimate around 40 home runs for the coming season.
Ultimately, only on-field results will alleviate any concerns about Raleigh's current form.
FAQ
What is causing concern about Cal Raleigh?
His hitless performance in the WBC and comments about his swing not being in a good place are raising concerns among Mariners fans.
How has Raleigh performed overall in the WBC?
He is hitless in nine at-bats but has drawn four walks and scored four runs.
Takeaways
- Cal Raleigh's struggles in the WBC are a cause for concern, but it's important to remember that spring training performance doesn't always translate to the regular season.
- His ability to fine-tune his swing upon returning to Peoria for spring training will be crucial.
- Mariners fans should focus on his potential for explosive plays and remember his career-high .247 batting average from last year.
Discussion
What do you think about Cal Raleigh's performance in the WBC? Will he bounce back and have another strong season with the Mariners? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Sources
Disclaimer
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