The Seattle Mariners have taken an initial step toward rebuilding their roster for a stronger campaign, confirming that two key offensive contributors have undergone procedures expected to clear them for the upcoming spring training. The organization disclosed on Monday that both players had their surgeries performed on Saturday.
Cal Raleigh, the team’s primary power hitter, underwent debridement surgery on his left acromioclavicular joint. Meanwhile, Josh Naylor had a fibrocartilage complex repair on his right wrist. Both injuries are anticipated to be resolved well before the start of the next season.
The Mariners’ 2026 campaign marked a significant downturn following their near-historic run the previous year. Despite competing in what is widely considered the most favorable division in the American League, the club finished with a 76-86 record, falling five games short of a postseason berth. This performance represented the steepest decline among all AL teams.
The managerial shakeup began on the final day of the regular season, when the club announced that Dan Wilson would not continue in his role as manager. Within days, several other members of the coaching staff, including Manny Acta, were also released.
The struggles of Raleigh and Naylor were central to the team’s inability to meet expectations. Raleigh’s drop in performance was particularly stark; after hitting 60 home runs and placing second in the American League MVP voting in 2025, he slashed just .182 with 23 home runs in 2026. This year-over-year decline stands out as one of the most significant regressions in recent major league history.
Naylor, who was acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks at the 2025 trade deadline and subsequently signed to a five-year contract, also saw his production dip. He posted a .667 on-base plus slugging average and 10 home runs, marking his lowest offensive output in the last five seasons.
Looking ahead to 2027, the Mariners’ dependence on Raleigh and Naylor is set to increase. This is due to the impending free agency of Randy Arozarena and J.P. Crawford later this winter, which will leave the team with fewer established offensive options.