Early Struggles: Cal Raleigh and Seattle Offense Face Tough Start in 2026 MLB Season

The Seattle Mariners entered the 2026 MLB season with high hopes, but the campaign’s opening weeks have been defined by offensive struggles, particularly among the team’s biggest stars. Catcher Cal Raleigh has played a central role in this early narrative, as his first 13 games have mirrored the broader challenges facing Seattle’s lineup.

Through the first two weeks of the schedule, the Mariners’ bats have been largely silent, leading to a disappointing start in the standings. The spotlight has fallen on Raleigh, whose early numbers are emblematic of the team-wide slump. According to a breakdown of his opening 13 games, Raleigh’s offensive output has yet to find last year’s rhythm, a trend that has Seattle fans and analysts alike debating the severity of the issue.

• Raleigh has struggled at the plate, reflecting a team-wide offensive drought
• Seattle’s star hitters have yet to deliver, contributing to a rough team start
• Coaches and fans are questioning how real and persistent these concerns might be

While the sample size is still small, the Mariners’ inability to generate runs has put pressure on both the hitters and the coaching staff. The team’s stars, including Raleigh, have not provided the production expected from them, leading to a string of low-scoring games and missed opportunities. The slow start has left the Mariners searching for answers, as they look for ways to jumpstart their offense and climb back into contention.

The early going in Major League Baseball is often characterized by fluctuations in performance, but Seattle’s collective slump is drawing more attention given the expectations placed on the club. As Raleigh and his teammates try to break out of their funk, all eyes are on upcoming series and the adjustments that might turn the tide for one of the American League’s most intriguing teams.