The Seattle Mariners have welcomed back Mitch Garver to enhance their catching depth as they finalize their 2026 roster. The experienced catcher, 35, has signed a minor league contract that includes an invitation to spring training, with the chance to compete for playing time behind All-Star Cal Raleigh, sources confirmed Wednesday. This move adds valuable reinforcement to the Mariners’ catching options as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Garver’s Previous Time in Seattle and Career Highlights
This marks Garver’s return to the Mariners, where he played the last two seasons. Initially brought on as a designated hitter in 2024, he transitioned into a trusted backup catcher role supporting Raleigh, who finished as the American League MVP runner-up last year. Although Garver posted a modest .187 batting average in 201 games with Seattle, including 24 home runs and 81 RBIs, his veteran leadership was appreciated by the team.
Garver’s previous accomplishments underline his offensive power. In 2019, he hit a career-best 31 home runs for Minnesota, earned a Silver Slugger Award, and later added a World Series championship ring during his time with Texas in 2023. With 106 career home runs, Garver offers potential power that the Mariners hope to tap into once again.
Competition Among Backup Catchers Intensifies
Garver enters a competitive race for the backup catcher spot. He will contend with Andrew Knizner, who signed a one-year contract worth $1 million in December but is considered to have less offensive upside, and Jhonny Pereda, who remains on the 40-man roster but has limited major league experience, appearing in only 50 games so far. The recent trade of top catching prospect Harry Ford to Washington has further opened the door for Garver’s opportunities.
Pereda is expected to spend most of the season at Triple-A, leaving the primary backup position likely to be a contest between Garver and Knizner. Garver’s contract includes opt-out clauses on March 22, May 1, and June 1, allowing him to pursue other major league options if he does not secure a spot with Seattle.
Strategic Benefits of Bringing Garver Back
From the Mariners’ perspective, this deal carries minimal risk and potential high reward. If Garver fails to make the major league roster, the team incurs no major cost. If he does earn a role, his familiarity with the organization and experience behind a top-tier catcher like Raleigh could prove invaluable during the season’s challenges. Garver’s return provides insurance and depth at a crucial position as Seattle aims to strengthen their chances of breaking a long playoff drought.
For Garver, this opportunity offers a chance to rebound from struggles during the 2024 and 2025 seasons and demonstrate his value once more. For Seattle, signing him represents a cost-effective move to add experienced catching depth as the Mariners pursue their first postseason appearance since 2001.
“The reunion gives both sides a chance to write a better ending to their story. For Garver, it’s an opportunity to prove his 2024-25 struggles were an aberration. For Seattle, it’s a cost-effective way to add depth and experience to their catching corps as they chase their first playoff appearance since 2001.” ?Anonymous Source
