As the Seattle Mariners head into a critical off-season, Dan Wilson has announced the team’s intent to bring in three new free agents to strengthen the bullpen. With back-to-back seasons of missing the playoffs, the Mariners are gearing up for significant changes to their roster, particularly after the firing of former manager Scott Servais. New faces and a bolstered bullpen could be the key to turning things around.
The Mariners made a return to the postseason in 2022 for the first time in 21 years, raising hopes that the team was on the cusp of sustained success. However, those expectations were dashed as they missed the playoffs in both 2023 and 2024, finishing just one game out of the Wild Card this past season. Despite a mid-season managerial change, which saw Dan Wilson step in and lead the team to a 21-13 record, it wasn’t enough to secure a postseason berth.
A significant factor in their struggles has been the team’s hitting. The Mariners ended the 2024 season with a dismal .214 team batting average, second-worst in the league behind the 121-loss Chicago White Sox. Addressing this deficiency, alongside strengthening the bullpen, is a top priority this off-season.
Mariners Looking to Trade George Kirby for a Quality Hitter
One of the boldest moves the Mariners are considering is trading one of their top starting pitchers, George Kirby, to acquire a much-needed impact hitter. Seattle boasts one of the strongest rotations in the league, with Logan Gilbert, Bryce Miller, and Bryan Woo forming a powerful core alongside Kirby. However, with Kirby’s value high, a trade could yield a key bat for their struggling offense.
Several teams are in need of a reliable, young starting pitcher like Kirby, including the Texas Rangers, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Milwaukee Brewers. The Mariners could leverage this demand to land a high-caliber infielder or slugger that would bolster their lineup alongside star outfielder Julio Rodriguez.
Making a Run at Pete Alonso
One of the big names on the Mariners’ radar is New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso. Known for his incredible power at the plate, Alonso would bring a massive offensive upgrade to Seattle, particularly at first base, where the Mariners currently have a vacancy after parting ways with Ty France. Alonso, a proven home run hitter, would be a game-changer for the Mariners’ lineup and could help anchor their offense.
However, signing Alonso won’t come cheap. His agent, Scott Boras, is likely to seek a substantial contract, potentially upwards of $200 million. While Alonso’s talent is undeniable, the Mariners have historically been cautious with big-money contracts, making this pursuit a potential financial stretch for the team.
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