Seattle Mariners Name Meibrys Garver Backup Catcher for 2026 Season

This article looks at the Seattle Mariners’ choice to bring in veteran Mitch Garver as their backup catcher for 2026. It covers the contract, his spring-training performance, and how Garver fits into the catching group with Cal Raleigh and others.

You’ll also get a sense of the roster mechanics behind his role. The move has some interesting implications for the club’s bench and bullpen management.

Garver Becomes Mariners’ Backup Catcher for 2026

Garver showed up at spring camp on February 20, pretty much at Cal Raleigh’s suggestion after reaching out to GM Justin Hollander. The Mariners wanted a veteran behind Raleigh, but they also needed to stay flexible in a year that’s probably going to test their bullpen and catching depth.

Garver came in as a free agent and signed a minor-league deal. If he makes the big-league roster, he’ll get $2.25 million.

Seattle likes his experience, and they’re hoping he can help with pitch-calling and the development of their young arms. This season’s going to demand a lot of depth and adaptability, so having someone like Garver around just makes sense.

Contract Details and Free-Agency Status

Garver, as an Article XX(B) free agent, had an opt-out date of March 21 if he didn’t make the 26-man roster. The Mariners have a plan to use a four-player right field/designated hitter platoon, so there aren’t a ton of at-bats for a traditional backup catcher.

But Garver’s right-handed bat and ability to pinch-run give Seattle a late-inning option. He fits a need on a lefty-heavy bench and gives them more options against different pitchers.

Seattle’s been trying to blend proven MLB depth with some upside from the minors. Garver gives Cal Raleigh a steady veteran to work with, especially on days when Raleigh is catching or DH-ing and the pitching staff needs to stay in rhythm.

Garver’s Role, Fit, and On-Field Impact

Manager Dan Wilson spoke highly of Garver’s experience and his knack for picking things up quickly. The Garver-Raleigh combo could really help manage Seattle’s pitching staff over a long season.

Garver’s main value is as a right-handed bat off the bench and an occasional pinch-runner. He’s a flexible weapon for late-game matchups and pinch-hitting spots when the usual platoons don’t quite fit the situation.

The Mariners’ four-man right-field/DH platoon means Garver will only stick if he makes the Major League club. He won’t get everyday plate appearances, but his experience as a catcher helps bridge lineups and keeps Raleigh fresh for the big moments.

Seattle’s goal is to have solid catcher depth without burning out one player. They want the flexibility to cover injuries or give guys a breather, especially with how long and unpredictable the season can get.

Depth Behind Garver: Pereda and Knizner

Seattle picked up Jhonny Pereda from Minnesota to round out their catching depth chart. Pereda still has minor-league options, so he brings some flexibility—he can back up, pinch-run, or just fill in wherever they need him.

Honestly, it seems like the Mariners want layers behind Raleigh and Garver. That way, if anything weird happens over the season, they’ve got options.

They also grabbed Andrew Knizner on a $1 million guaranteed deal. Knizner is out of options now, so if he gets outrighted and clears waivers, he could just say no thanks and go elsewhere.

That wrinkle gives Seattle another decision to make as they sort out their spring roster. It’s a bit of a juggling act, honestly.

• Mitch Garver signed a minor-league contract with a $2.25 million incentive if he makes the big-league roster.
• He joined camp on Feb. 20 at Cal Raleigh’s recommendation, aiming to bolster catching depth and pitching staff support.
• Garver’s role is shaped by Seattle’s four-man RF/DH platoon, limiting at-bats but enhancing bench versatility with pinch-hitting and speed on the bases.
• Jhonny Pereda and Andrew Knizner provide additional depth options, with Knizner’s waiver status adding another layer to roster decisions this spring.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Drayer: Seattle Mariners to go with Garver as backup catcher