Overview
- Broadcast footage showed Cal Raleigh declining Randy Arozarena’s greeting before Mexico’s first at-bat in Team USA’s 5-3 win, prompting Arozarena’s profane postgame remarks in Spanish to a reporter.
- Raleigh later told reporters there is “no beef,” said he reached out to Arozarena, and framed his decision as staying locked in for Team USA, with outlets also noting routine catcher concerns about avoiding pine tar on the throwing hand.
- Mariners manager Dan Wilson said he plans to speak with both players and does not anticipate a problem in Seattle’s clubhouse, and Mexico manager Benji Gil said the pair will handle it as professionals.
- Team USA manager Mark DeRosa said Raleigh told him the players had spoken and asked not to be put in that position at the plate, referencing a similar 2023 WBC moment involving Will Smith and Arozarena.
- The moment drew further attention when Mexico outfielder Alek Thomas posted the snub photo with a motivational caption, even as both Mariners teammates are set to reunite in spring training.