Seattle, WA — In a revelation that has the entire baseball world on edge, starting catcher Cal Raleigh said that Josh Naylor is not just a power hitter, but also a “surprising force” who is reshaping the Seattle Mariners locker room. Raleigh acknowledged that Naylor’s presence has brought a breath of fresh air, changed the team chemistry, and created a more competitive spirit than ever before.
Raleigh described Naylor as the Mariners’ “clubhouse MVP” for the 2025 season, not just because of his on-field accomplishments, but because of his psychological impact on the team. “Josh is incredibly funny, but he’s also serious when he needs to be,” Raleigh said. “Jim’s presence (Naylor’s nickname) has made the locker room more lively, and he inspires all of us.”
It wasn’t just a comment for laughs — it carried a lot of weight, as Cal Raleigh was seen as the “conscience” of the team. According to The Seattle Times, Raleigh had publicly demanded more ambition, quality investment, and a commitment to winning.
Seattle Times
When Naylor arrived midseason, Raleigh quickly sensed something special: this was a player who contributed not just with his hitting, but with his spirit and his responsibility.
Naylor joined the Mariners in a midseason trade from the Diamondbacks and immediately made a strong impression. He was a consistent hitter on the field, but it was off the field where he proved his greatest value. Raleigh recalled the moments when Naylor lifted the team’s spirits: “He just walked into the locker room and everyone felt his presence. When Jim laughed, we laughed. When he was serious, everyone listened.”
Raleigh has made no secret of the fact that he has been “on the lookout” for player input from the management and front office, including attending strategy meetings to ensure the team is on the right track. According to a previous article, Raleigh said he wants to ensure the organization is “committed to winning.”
With Naylor being a re-signing target this season, his influence within Raleigh and the team has become even more apparent.
The bond between Naylor and Raleigh is also evident in the small but meaningful moments. Raleigh told reporters that Naylor is someone he trusts, both in the heat of battle and in the locker room. “Jim’s competitiveness is not just for himself, but for the team,” he said. “When he steps on the field, everyone knows he has a bigger responsibility when he wears a Mariners jersey.”
Naylor’s influence is also reflected in the team spirit. Raleigh believes that keeping Naylor long-term is key to helping the Mariners maintain their competitive identity: “If we want to build a team that is not just good for one season, but sustainable, Jim has to be a part of it. He has the kind of impact every team dreams of — both in the locker room and on the field.”
And to add credence, Raleigh reiterated: “Josh’s presence has changed the way this team feels — we don’t just compete, we believe we can win big.” This isn’t empty talk — it comes from a visionary player who is building a culture of fighting and perseverance for the Mariners.
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