Salvador Perez Has Simple Message When Asked About Seattle Mariners' Cal Raleigh

Raleigh enters play on Thursday as the league-leader in home runs with 33. His potent season at the plate has earned him a spot in the looming Home Run Derby, and he was just named the starter for the American League All-Star team. It will be his first All-Star appearance.

Praise from Perez is about as good as it gets for backstops, as he's one of the most decorated catchers in recent memory. A nine-time All-Star, he's also a five-time Gold Glover and a five-time Silver Slugger. He was named the MVP of the World Series when the Royals won in 2015.

As for Raleigh, he's done more than just hit home runs this season, as he's hitting .272 overall with 71 RBIs. He has been the key to the M's success as they look to get back to the playoffs for the first time since 2022.

The Mariners enter play on Thursday at 45-41 and in possession of the third and final wild card spot in the AL. They'll take on the Royals again Thursday at 7:10 p.m. PT. Rookie Logan Evans, just re-called from Triple-A, will get the start for Seattle.

Seth Lugo will pitch for Kansas City.