Mariners’ Raleigh Receives Kraken Fans’ Acclaim After Historic season
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A remarkable display of cross-sport fandom emerged as Cal Raleigh, the star catcher for the Seattle Mariners, received a standing ovation from fans of the Seattle Kraken after being shown on the big screen. This outpouring of support underscores Raleigh’s impact both on and off the field, following a season that brought the Mariners to the brink of baseball history.
The Mariners, under Raleigh’s leadership, achieved a 90-72 regular season record – one of the franchise’s best ever – and secured the AL West division title. The team’s postseason run saw them defeat the Detroit Tigers in the American League Division Series, before a hard-fought seven-game series loss to the Toronto Blue Jays in the American League Championship Series.
A Season to Remember for the Mariners
Raleigh’s performance was pivotal to the Mariners’ success. He guided the team through a challenging season, culminating in a near-miss for their first-ever World Series appearance. The team’s victory over the Tigers marked a notable milestone, igniting excitement among fans and solidifying their position as contenders.
“The energy surrounding the team was electric,” noted one baseball analyst. “Raleigh’s presence was a key factor in maintaining that momentum throughout the playoffs.”
Cross-sport Support: Raleigh and the Kraken
The connection between Raleigh and the Kraken extends beyond the shared Seattle fanbase. In September, prior to the Kraken’s own playoff push, Raleigh was spotted wearing the Kraken’s glow-in-the-dark alternate sweater, publicly demonstrating his support for the NHL team.
This gesture was reciprocated by Mariners first baseman Josh Naylor, who donned a Kraken jersey during the Mariners’ celebrations after clinching the ALDS win. This mutual support highlights the growing camaraderie between Seattle’s professional sports teams and their passionate fans.
The display of unity resonated deeply with the Kraken faithful, culminating in the heartfelt ovation for raleigh. It’s a testament to the power of sports to bring communities together and celebrate athletic achievement, regardless of the game.
