3 Mariners hitters the Blue Jays need to contain in the ALCS

The Toronto Blue Jays are set to face a much tougher opponent in this round of the Major League Baseball postseason. The Seattle Mariners present a completely different challenge — a team built with balance, depth, and dangerous “360-degree” offensive capabilities throughout their lineup.

In the previous series, Blue Jays pitchers dominated a lineup that struggled under pressure. That won’t be the case against Seattle. The Mariners’ hitters have produced consistently all season long and continued to do so through the Division Series.

Mariners Bring a High-Octane Offense

The biggest difference between the Blue Jays’ ALDS opponent and what’s to come in this series will be the amount of contact Seattle makes. The Mariners ranked 9th in MLB in runs scored (766) during the regular season, 3rd in home runs (238), and swiped 161 bases — showcasing power, speed, and versatility.

Their lineup is polished from top to bottom, and Toronto’s pitchers will need to handle several key Mariners hitters with caution to prevent them from taking over the series.

Key Mariners X-Factors the Blue Jays Must Contain

Cal Raleigh: The Blue Jays’ Nightmare Returns

Cal Raleigh remains one of the most dangerous offensive weapons for Seattle — and one who has a history of haunting the Blue Jays. Back in 2022, Raleigh was the Mariners’ offensive x-factor in the Wild Card Series that sent Toronto home early.

Now in 2025, he’s even more dangerous. Raleigh posted a 7.3 WAR, 147 hits, 110 runs, 60 home runs, and 125 RBIs this season, with a .247/.359/.589 slash line. Against Toronto specifically, he’s hit .263/.462/.474, showing improved plate discipline and contact quality. His 26.7% strikeout rate is the lowest of his career, while his 49.6% hard-hit rate is his highest.

Blue Jays pitchers must attack Raleigh with precision, avoid his wheelhouse, and be willing to issue a walk in the right situation.