You hardly even catch it when just a routine walk to the dugout spirals into a visibly intense confrontation. That’s what happened in a recent 12-inning showdown when the Seattle Mariners went up against the Toronto Blue Jays. A fiery exchange of words ignited a tense scene on the field, which ultimately resulted in clearing both the benches and bringing arms from the bullpen.

It all stems from when the Blue Jays’ right-hander José Berríos claimed that the Mariners’ catcher Cal Raleigh was relaying pitch information to his team when Rowdy Tellez struck out the previous batter, dangling his right arm for a fastball while holding it straight for a breaking ball. It was a claim that the Mariners’ $105 million star straightaway denied.

He voiced it up postgame, saying, “They thought I was relaying. I wasn’t. I mean, if you just look at the results, Rowdy was way off-balance.” He added, “I didn’t have the pitches. But that’s just how it is. I’d want my pitchers doing the same thing if somebody thought they were tipping.” Raleigh ensured to make it clear that he wasn’t crossing any lines. He also pointed out that Berríos had a right to defend himself.

The breaking point was at the end of the fourth inning when Berríos was found exchanging blunt words while walking back to the dugout. It resulted in clearing both the benches, while the Blue Jays’ Guerrero Jr. helped to de-escalate the scenario.

Further, Berríos mentioned that this wasn’t his usual version: “I don’t react that way very often.” He added, “I’m a quiet and chill guy. But when some people are trying to fight with us in the field, I don’t respect that. I don’t like that.” He emphasized that it was the situation that sparked his frustration.

When Raleigh appeared again during the fifth inning, he hit a two-run double to right field. As a result, the Mariners were 2-1 ahead. Eventually, the Blue Jays fell to the Mariners by 8-4 in 12 innings.

An MLB insider from ESPN has a major revelation on Mariners’ star Cal Raleigh

The Mariners’ $105 million star, Cal Raleigh, is currently in the best stretch of his career. And no, the hype around him isn’t just about his soaring home runs. Around the league, he has gained attention and respect for all the right reasons.

You see, Raleigh has a signature style of play. He’s dubbed “the big dumper” for a reason. In his last six games, Raleigh has homered six times. Additionally, he has played a massive role in leading the Mariners’ pitching staff. Not to mention, in the American League, he won the Platinum Glove a year ago.

MLB Insider Buster Olney from ESPN recently shed light on how Raleigh is perceived in the league. Apparently, earlier this year, they did a top 10 ranking of catchers in the league. The result might amaze you. Out of the three names he received consistently from the evaluators, Cal Raleigh was the one.

The reason? Well, simply because “he does so many things so well.” The league is a witness, and his impressive numbers back it up.

That serves as a notable recognition for Raleigh. It’s the impact he has on the Mariners and what he brings to the table. As Olney summed it up, “When you have a plus player at catcher, it’s a big advantage for the team.” Raleigh offers flashes of brilliance to the Mariners, and it seems like they are already bringing out the best in him.