The Seattle Mariners are seeing positive developments in the recovery of two of their key players, catcher Cal Raleigh and utilityman Brendan Donovan. Both athletes have been sidelined due to injuries but are now actively participating in rehabilitation exercises, signaling their eventual return to the field. The team management emphasizes a cautious approach to ensure their full recovery and prevent any potential setbacks.
Cal Raleigh, who had been placed on the injured list on May 14 due to a right oblique strain, recently took his first swings since the injury. During a practice session at the team’s spring training facility in Arizona, the switch-hitter completed 30 swings off a tee, with an equal distribution of 15 hacks from both sides, maintaining a moderate intensity. General manager Justin Hollander confirmed Raleigh's progress, noting that he is also engaging in catching and throwing activities up to 130 feet. The team is keen on building his strength responsibly, ensuring he is 100% fit before his full return.
While there isn't a definitive timeline for Raleigh's return to the lineup, he is scheduled to travel to Seattle for further medical assessment. The possibility of a rehab assignment before he rejoins the main squad is highly anticipated. Manager Dan Wilson has maintained regular contact with Raleigh and expressed his eagerness to have the player's leadership back in the clubhouse. Raleigh's absence followed a challenging period where he played through pain, leading to a significant hitless streak, the longest in the majors this season, before he managed two singles in a game against Houston.
Meanwhile, All-Star utilityman Brendan Donovan, who was placed on the 10-day injured list on May 17 with a left groin muscle strain, is also making strides in his recovery. Donovan has progressed to running on a weightless treadmill, and similar to Raleigh, he is expected to require a rehab assignment. The Mariners are exercising prudence with Donovan's rehabilitation, especially given his prior left groin muscle strain earlier in the season and sports hernia surgery in October 2025. Hollander highlighted the importance of a deliberate recovery process to avoid any recurrence of the injury.
The Mariners are meticulously managing the recovery of both Raleigh and Donovan, prioritizing their long-term health and performance. The measured approach to their rehabilitation, involving controlled physical activity and careful medical evaluation, aims to integrate them back into the team at their peak physical condition. Their eventual return is expected to significantly bolster the team's capabilities, adding crucial depth and experience as the season progresses.
