Cal Raleigh Hangs Up His Cleats: Mariners’ Beloved ‘Big Dumper’ Announces Retirement at 28
In a move that has stunned the baseball world, Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, affectionately known as “Big Dumper,” has announced his retirement from professional baseball at the age of 28. The decision comes just two years after his iconic walk-off home run in 2022 that ended the Mariners’ 21-year playoff drought, cementing his place in franchise history. Raleigh, known for his powerful bat, defensive prowess, and larger-than-life personality, leaves the game at a time when he appeared to be entering his prime, making his departure all the more surprising.
Raleigh’s journey to the majors was one of perseverance. Drafted by the Mariners in the third round of the 2018 MLB Draft out of Florida State University, he quickly rose through the minors with a reputation as a hard-nosed, switch-hitting catcher with raw power. He made his MLB debut in 2021, but it was the 2022 season where he truly became a Seattle legend. On September 30, 2022, with the Mariners needing a win to clinch their first postseason berth in over two decades, Raleigh stepped up in the bottom of the ninth inning against the Oakland Athletics. With two outs and a full count, he launched a towering walk-off home run into the right-field seats at T-Mobile Park, sending the city into euphoria. That moment, immortalized in Mariners lore, encapsulated Raleigh’s clutch gene and cemented his status as a fan favorite.
Beyond the heroics, Raleigh was a steady force behind the plate. His defensive improvements, particularly in pitch framing and game-calling, earned praise from pitchers and coaches alike. Offensively, he provided rare power from the catcher position, belting 30 home runs in 2023—a Mariners single-season record for a backstop. His switch-hitting ability made him a constant threat, and his fiery demeanor brought an edge to Seattle’s clubhouse. Teammates often spoke of his work ethic and leadership, qualities that made him a cornerstone of the franchise’s resurgence.
So why retire now? In a heartfelt statement, Raleigh cited a combination of personal reasons and a desire to step away while still healthy. “This game has given me everything, and I’ll forever be grateful,” he said. “But after a lot of reflection, I know in my heart it’s time to move on. I want to thank the Mariners organization, my teammates, and the best fans in baseball for making my career unforgettable.” While Raleigh did not elaborate further, sources close to him suggest that the physical toll of catching, coupled with a desire to pursue interests outside of baseball, played a significant role in his decision.
The Mariners released a statement from Chairman John Stanton and President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto, calling Raleigh “a defining player of this era” and thanking him for his contributions on and off the field. Manager Scott Servais, a former catcher himself, praised Raleigh’s toughness and impact, saying, “Cal played the game the right way—with passion, grit, and a love for his team. You can’t replace a guy like that.”
Fans have flooded social media with tributes, sharing memories of Raleigh’s big moments—from his walk-off heroics to his towering home runs and even his playful “Big Dumper” nickname, which he embraced with humor. The moniker, originally a tongue-in-cheek reference to his physique, became a badge of honor, symbolizing his blue-collar approach to the game.
Raleigh’s retirement leaves a massive void for the Mariners, who now must find a new long-term solution at catcher. Top prospect Harry Ford looms as a potential successor, but Raleigh’s presence—both in the lineup and the clubhouse—will be deeply missed. His departure also raises questions about what could have been; at 28, he seemed poised for multiple All-Star appearances and perhaps even a World Series run with Seattle’s young core.
As the baseball world processes the news, one thing is certain: Cal Raleigh’s legacy in Seattle is secure. In just a few short years, he went from a promising prospect to a franchise icon, delivering one of the most memorable moments in Mariners history. While his career was shorter than many expected, his impact was undeniable. Whether it was his clutch hits, his defensive mastery, or his infectious personality, Raleigh left an indelible mark on the game.
For now, “Big Dumper” rides off into the sunset, leaving behind a city that will forever cherish his contributions. The Mariners’ future remains bright, but there will always be a special place in Seattle’s heart for the catcher who helped bring playoff baseball back to the Pacific Northwest. As one fan’s sign at T-Mobile Park once read: “Thanks for the dump trucks of dingers, Cal.” The sentiment couldn’t be more fitting.
