Mitch Garver & Cal Raleigh hit 4 HRs to power the Seattle Mariners past the Chicago Cubs 9-4 on June 20, 2025. Get the full recap of the offensive explosion!
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Wrigley Field's famous ivy saw a different kind of green on Friday as the Seattle Mariners' bats came alive in a resounding 9-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs. Forget the friendly confines; Mitch Garver and Cal Raleigh turned the historic ballpark into their personal launching pad, combining for four home runs and eight RBIs in a much-needed offensive breakout.
'Those guys really set the tone for us tonight.' - Coach Dan Wilson on Mitch Garver and Cal Raleigh's leadership at the plate.
It was a slugfest in Chicago, and the Mariners' backstops brought the heavy artillery. Mitch Garver was the star of the show, crushing two homers and driving in five runs, including a back-breaking three-run blast in the ninth that put the game on ice. Not to be outdone, Cal Raleigh continued his torrid pace, going 3-for-4 with two long balls of his own and three RBIs. 'The Big Dumper' is not just hitting for power; he even swiped a base, solidifying his spot among the league's elite hitters. Randy Arozarena also chipped in with three hits, while Luis Castillo battled through six innings, striking out seven to earn the win. It was the kind of complete offensive performance fans have been waiting for.
Just as the offense found its footing, the front office made a significant move. Luke Raley was activated from the injured list after a successful rehab stint in Tacoma, where he homered in his final game. Raley's return from a right oblique strain provides a welcome left-handed bat with versatility. To make room, the Mariners designated first baseman Rowdy Tellez for assignment, signaling the team's desire for a different look and more defensive flexibility at the corner infield spots.
While the offense celebrated, the pitching staff is still navigating a key absence. An update on Bryce Miller confirmed he's dealing with right elbow inflammation and received a PRP injection for a bone spur. The good news is that surgery isn't on the table, but the team will be patient. Miller is expected to remain on the shelf until after the All-Star break, putting more pressure on the rest of the rotation to hold the line.
The power surge isn't just happening in the big leagues. Top prospect Michael Arroyo is putting on a clinic at High-A, blasting his 14th home run of the season. It was his fourth homer in just three games, a scorching hot streak that showcases the exciting offensive talent brewing in the Mariners' farm system. The future looks bright, and Arroyo is a name to watch.
With a decisive win, a roster tweak, and positive signs from the farm, it was a productive Friday for the Mariners. The key now is to build on this offensive momentum. Can the bats stay hot for the rest of the series against the Cubs? If the Garver and Raleigh show is any indication, Seattle is ready to keep the home run train rolling right through the weekend.
