Mariners sign former Blue Jays catcher
The Seattle Mariners have claimed catcher Nick Raposo off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays.
At 27, he has yet to make his Major League debut but could have an opportunity this season, given the Mariners' uncertain situation at catcher.
Though Raposo has not yet appeared in a Major League game, he is a recent example of what is sometimes called a "phantom ballplayer." In June 2024, the Cardinals briefly called him up after an injury to Ivan Herrera. However, he never played in a game and was returned to the minors the following day.
In the minors, Raposo has shown some promise, hitting 20 home runs over four seasons, including eight last year between Memphis and Buffalo.
While Cal Raleigh is firmly entrenched as the Mariners' starting catcher, Raposo could serve as a potential backup. Cal Raleigh. Mitch Garver is also on the roster, but his role with the team remains uncertain after a down year in 2024.
Raposo could also begin the season at Triple-A and serve as the first call-up in the event of an injury. The Mariners would prefer Garver to focus more on the designated hitter role, but were forced to use him behind the plate last year after his offensive production declined.
If Garver can regain his power, he's likely to assume the full-time DH role, which would open the door for Raposo to become the backup catcher behind Raleigh.
Since the Mariners had an open spot on their 40-man roster, no corresponding moves were required.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 19 | 141 ANSWERS Mariners sign former Blue Jays catcher Will Nick Raposo be the backup catcher this year? | ||
| Yes | 54 | 38.3 % |
| No | 87 | 61.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
