After a three-game absence due to right side tightness, Seattle Mariners star catcher Cal Raleigh is back in the lineup tonight. The 26-year-old returns to action against the Atlanta Braves, batting second—a clear sign the team is eager to get his bat back in the order.

Raleigh had been sidelined since May 1 with what the team described as side soreness. While there were whispers he might be heading to the injured list—and even reports he underwent an MRI on Monday—the results have not been released. For now, it appears he’s avoided a longer stint on the IL.

It’s worth noting that Seattle may ease him back into action by using him as the designated hitter tonight. That would allow the coaching staff to monitor his recovery while giving him valuable game reps. When asked about the injury on Monday, Raleigh downplayed the situation, saying, “Everything is good, just taking it day by day.”

Of course, all eyes are on Raleigh after his historic 2025 campaign, when he smashed 60 home runs—the most ever by a catcher in a single MLB season. While he hasn’t replicated that torrid pace in 2026, he’s still shown flashes of power with seven homers in 33 games. The batting average sits at .186 and his OPS at .652, but a healthy Raleigh is a game-changer for a Mariners lineup looking to find its rhythm.

Whether he’s behind the plate or in the DH spot tonight, his presence alone is a boost for Seattle as they take on a tough Braves squad. For Mariners fans and fantasy owners alike, this is a welcome return.