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- Randy Arozarena apologized to Seattle Mariners teammate Cal Raleigh for expletive-laced comments made during the World Baseball Classic.
- The incident stemmed from Raleigh ignoring Arozarena's handshake offer during a March 9 game between Mexico and the USA.
- Arozarena's initial comments included telling an interviewer Raleigh could "f*** off" and "go to hell."
- Arozarena issued a statement through the Mariners, confirming he and Raleigh had spoken and that they remain "brothers and teammates."
- Mariners manager Joe Wilson was not surprised by the apology, citing the team's strong bond.
Baseball outfielder Randy Arozarena has issued an apology to his Seattle Mariners teammate Cal Raleigh following a heated exchange during the World Baseball Classic (WBC) on March 9. The incident occurred when Arozarena, representing Mexico, was angered by Raleigh, playing for the USA, who ignored his handshake offer.
In a subsequent interview, Arozarena made expletive-laced comments, telling an interviewer that Raleigh could "f*** off" and "go to hell." The remarks quickly drew attention, especially with the Mariners' regular season approaching.
On Saturday, Arozarena released a statement through the Mariners, confirming he had spoken with Raleigh and apologized for his comments. He emphasized their bond, stating, "Cal and I have talked and I apologized for what I said after the game. Nothing in the WBC takes away from the fact that we are brothers and teammates."
Mariners manager Joe Wilson expressed no surprise at Arozarena's apology, highlighting the strong camaraderie within the team. "It’s just a special group," Wilson told MLB.com. "They love each other, and yeah, it’s time. I think we’re all ready to get back to Seattle and get this thing started."
The Mariners are set to begin their season on Thursday against the Cleveland Guardians, with both Arozarena and Raleigh expected to be key players.