Mitch Garver powered the Seattle Mariners to a thrilling 6-4 victory over the Texas Rangers in the 12th inning, capping off a remarkable series where all three games went into extra frames. Garver hit a crucial two-run homer in the 12th, bringing his total to four RBIs for the game. Earlier, the Mariners had a 3-1 lead in the 10th thanks to RBI singles from Donovan Solano and Garver.

The Rangers responded with a two-run shot from Corey Seager, who tied the game in the 10th. This marked the first time since 2002 that a series involving the Rangers witnessed three extra-inning games, as the Mariners took two out of three in this tightly contested battle.

Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners shattered Johnny Bench’s 1970 record for home runs by a catcher before the All-Star break, hitting his 28th and 29th homers in a 9-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs. This achievement came in just 73 games, surpassing Bench’s record set in 87 games and leaving Raleigh with a historic 22 games to spare before the All-Star Game. Raleigh expressed gratitude for being mentioned alongside a Hall of Famer, while fellow catcher Mitch Garver also hit two homers, marking a historic moment for the Mariners.

Raleigh's record-breaking performance included three hits and three RBIs, bringing his season total to 63. Notably, Bench was a 14-time All-Star and a former National League MVP, known for leading the league with 45 homers in 1970. Raleigh and Garver’s dual homers marked the first instance since 1979 that two primary catchers from the same team each hit two home runs in a game.

J.T. Realmuto leads MLB catchers as the highest-paid player for the 2025 season, earning $23.9 million. His contract, valued at $115.5 million over five years, underscores the value of elite catchers in today's game. The list of top-earning catchers also features Salvador Perez and Willson Contreras, with salaries of $21.8 million and $18 million, respectively. With only seven catchers earning over $10 million, the position remains underappreciated in terms of salary.

Sean Murphy and Mitch Garver round out the top five with earnings of $15 million and $12.5 million. Interestingly, the financial disparity among catchers highlights their critical but often overlooked role, especially as only 16 receive an annual salary of at least $5 million. The figures, compiled by USA TODAY, reflect present-day contract values, including deferrals and bonuses, providing insight into the financial landscape of MLB.

George Kirby's 2024 season with the Seattle Mariners showcased resilience and growth, even with a rocky start. After struggling with a 5.26 ERA in April, Kirby rebounded, culminating in a 3.53 ERA by season's end, highlighted by 179 strikeouts in 191 innings. A key turning point came when backup catcher Mitch Garver stepped in, fostering a significant communication dynamic that helped Kirby regain his rhythm.

Despite shoulder inflammation that will sideline him early in the next season, Kirby's potential remains high. His ability to adjust and thrive post-injury will be essential for Mariners' pitching plans. The chemistry he developed with Garver indicates a promising partnership moving forward.

With spring training in full swing, the battle for starting positions across MLB is heating up, particularly in the AL West. The Houston Astros are reconsidering Jose Altuve's role, with potential shifts to left field following Alex Bregman's departure, raising fantasy stakes for second base options like Mauricio Dubon and Brendan Rodgers.

In Los Angeles, the Angels face uncertainty at shortstop with Zach Neto sidelined, placing Luis Rengifo in a favorable position for daily at-bats. Meanwhile, the Athletics are looking to Seth Brown for left field duties amidst a crowded roster, and the Mariners' Mitch Garver and Mitch Haniger aim to rebound from poor seasons as they vie for designated hitter spots. The Rangers, on the other hand, are eager to see how Evan Carter performs in center field, especially with Adolis Garcia's injury.