BREAKING: Mariners Get High Standouts News On Logan Gilbert

When the Seattle Mariners locked in catcher Cal Raleigh with a long-term contract extension, a natural question followed: Who might be next?

For many, the obvious candidate was Logan Gilbert.

Gilbert has emerged as the ace of Seattle’s impressive starting rotation, which includes All-Stars Luis Castillo and George Kirby, along with rising talents Bryce Miller and Bryan Woo. At 27, Gilbert also shares a strong bond with Raleigh, having pitched to him since his professional debut in 2019.

If you think Raleigh’s six-year, $105 million deal won’t influence a potential extension for Gilbert, you may want to reconsider. During an interview on Seattle Sports’ Wyman and Bob show, recorded live at Edgar’s Cantina in T-Mobile Park, Gilbert gave some insight that suggests otherwise.

Co-host Bob Stelton asked whether Raleigh’s extension, along with Julio Rodríguez’s massive 2022 contract, sent a message to players like Gilbert and others in the rotation. Gilbert’s response hinted at more than just admiration—it revealed a vision.

“There’s a lot to consider,” Gilbert said. “But if there’s one guy whose deal would really impact my thinking, it’s Cal. Having him locked up for all those years means a lot. He’s caught the majority of my games—both in the minors and majors. Moving to another team and having to adjust to a new catcher changes a lot.

“Cal knows me so well that I’ve imagined the ideal scenario—something like what Wainwright and Yadi had with the Cardinals. They had something like 300 starts together. It’d be amazing to chase that. Obviously, a lot has to go right, but if I could throw to Cal my entire career, I’d absolutely do it.”

That sounds like a strong hint at wanting to stay.

The legendary Cardinals duo of Adam Wainwright and Yadier Molina teamed up from 2005 to 2022, setting the MLB record for most starts together as a pitcher-catcher combo with 328. Gilbert, now in his fifth MLB season, has made 125 starts—though not all with Raleigh. Still, Mariners fans would likely welcome the idea of Gilbert and Raleigh chasing that record together, especially since both were drafted by Seattle in 2018.

While we’re at it

Logan Gilbert offered more than one encouraging hint about a potential contract extension with the Mariners before he’s eligible for free agency after the 2027 season. He also echoed some key points made by Cal Raleigh during his recent press conference explaining why he committed to a new deal with Seattle.

 

 

“Cal nailed it in his presser—he talked about the culture here, something we’ve helped create since we were drafted during the rebuild,” Gilbert said. “Everyone seems to be on the same page – the players, front office, support staff. And the staff behind the scenes, from the trainers to the analytics team and pitching coaches like ‘Woody’ (Pete Woodworth) and Trent (Blank), is probably the best in the league.”

Gilbert emphasized how the organization’s commitment to player development allows players to focus on improving. “There are so many people dedicated to helping our careers, genuinely invested in our success. The culture, the way everyone cares about each other – that’s rare. I don’t think it’s like this everywhere,” he added.

Another big factor that might entice Gilbert to stay in Seattle is T-Mobile Park, which Statcast ranks as the most pitcher-friendly stadium and least favorable for hitters in MLB.

 

 

“As a pitcher, there’s really nowhere else you’d rather be,” he said. “This park is a huge advantage for us. It’s truly one of the best environments for pitchers, and I want to take full advantage of that.”

Performance-wise, Gilbert is giving the Mariners every reason to consider a long-term deal. In 2024, he posted a 3.23 ERA while leading the majors in WHIP (0.89) and innings pitched (208 2/3). So far this season, he’s started strong again, with a 2.38 ERA, 0.66 WHIP, and a .138 opponent batting average through four starts. He also entered Monday tied for second in MLB with 32 strikeouts.