During the World Baseball Classic, Seattle Mariners outfielder Randy Arozarena expressed strong frustration toward catcher Cal Raleigh after a handshake was declined before an at-bat. The tension unfolded in the United States’ 5-3 victory over Mexico, where the expected sportsmanship gesture was notably absent between the two Team USA players.
Arozarena’s Response to the Snub
Following the incident, Arozarena criticized Raleigh during a conversation with Mexican journalist Luis Gilbert, speaking in Spanish. He remarked that Raleigh
“has to thank God that he has nice parents, well educated,”
adding that he recently greeted them warmly at the team hotel. The Cuban-born outfielder then used profane expressions in Cuban and Mexican slang before switching to English to dismiss Raleigh’s “good to see you” comment with a harsh retort.
Handshake Incident and Team Dynamics
The incident occurred as Arozarena reached down to offer a handshake to Raleigh, who was in his catching position at home plate. Raleigh chose not to reciprocate, reportedly speaking to Arozarena during the exchange, which may have ignited the visible irritation from the Mexican star. The two have been teammates since Arozarena was traded from Tampa Bay to Seattle in 2024, yet the interaction suggested unresolved friction.
Cal Raleigh refuses to shake hands with his Mariners teammate Randy Arozarena pic.twitter.com/YpTxhHmH9P
— Jomboy Media
Context of the Game and Team USA’s Progress
Despite the internal conflict, Team USA advanced to 3-0 in the tournament with a key third inning highlighted by a two-run homer from New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge and a three-run blast by Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony. The team is set to face Italy, which holds a 2-0 record, in an upcoming match to secure a quarterfinal berth in Houston this weekend.
Mexico’s Standout Performance and Upcoming Fixtures
Mexico, holding a 2-1 record, saw strong contributions from Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran, who hit two home runs during the contest. The Mexican team will meet Italy on Wednesday in their final Group B matchup, making the games critical for both advancing teams.
Implications of the Rift on the Team
The handshake refusal and Arozarena’s public reactions could impact the Mariners’ clubhouse and the dynamics within Team USA, especially as critical World Baseball Classic games approach. How this discord will affect their collaborative efforts remains uncertain as the tournament progresses toward the quarterfinal stage in Houston.
¡Randy Arozarena explota con Cal Raleigh! ⚾️🔥👀👀👀👀 pic.twitter.com/qhSDrKGMcC
— Luis Gilbert (@LuisGilbertLop) March 10, 2026
Cal Raleigh refuses to shake hands with his Mariners teammate Randy Arozarena pic.twitter.com/YpTxhHmH9P
— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) March 10, 2026
