Mariners’ Raleigh Insights on Gilbert’s Splitter and Arozarena’s Clutch Plays

SEATTLE, WA — Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh provided insights on teammate Logan Gilbert‘s remarkable performance with his splitter as well as the clutch moments brought by left fielder Randy Arozarena during the team’s early season battles. Both players have been critical to the Mariners’ success this season, which recently included a thrilling comeback win against the Houston Astros.

Raleigh and Gilbert, drafted in 2018, share a long-standing connection that includes being roommates and playing together in the minor leagues. This relationship has translated to success on the field, where they have been the starting battery 84 times in Majors. Gilbert’s impressive pitching has seen his use of the splitter rise to 25.5% this season, an increase of 12.1% from last season.

So far, batters are struggling against the splitter, with no hits recorded in 20 at-bats that concluded with the pitch, resulting in 14 strikeouts. “It’s just kind of what’s been called for so far, and it’s been really good, especially in two-strike counts,” Raleigh said during The Cal Raleigh Show. “Kind of been leaning into it.” Gilbert’s splitter is ranked 16th in baseball regarding usage, boasting a plus-3 run value tieing him with Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga. The pitch’s effectiveness is underscored by an impressive 57.8% whiff rate.

However, Raleigh also emphasized that adjustments are inevitable as the season progresses. “It’s been going well, but there’s going to be a time when it’s not working,” Raleigh cautioned. “And it’s just being prepared for that.” Raleigh’s insights reflect a pragmatic understanding of baseball dynamics.

Meanwhile, Arozarena has begun making his presence felt through clutch plays, notably a grand slam that shifted momentum against the Astros. This particular event took place in the eighth inning, where he helped the Mariners pull the game within one run. “I felt really good there, so I think that was some of the results that we saw today,” Arozarena said, reflecting on his performance. He credits regular training sessions for his ability to be in the right place at the right time.

Notably, Arozarena lowered his average this season but remains a strong contributor with extra-base hits. Despite hitting only .191, seven of his nine hits have been significant. His ability to make an impact during critical moments further reinforces his reputation for being clutch.

In terms of how the Mariners are performing overall, they currently hold a record of 5-8, with hopes of maintaining momentum after their comeback victory. Injuries to key players like George Kirby have put pressure on the pitching squad, resulting in a 4.55 ERA that ranks 20th in MLB.

The Mariners’ struggles with batting average continue, but they remain second in the league in walks and tied for third in stolen bases. These statistics indicate potential positive direction for the lineup as they research ways to capitalize on scoring opportunities. “We have a good group and I know it’s early in the season,” Arozarena stated, expressing optimism about the season’s trajectory, “but the object is October. I want to get back to October.”

The Mariners will seek to build on their recent success as they face tough division rivals in upcoming games. The potential of Raleigh, Gilbert, and Arozarena performing in top form could be the key to their success this season.