The Seattle Mariners are making significant moves to enhance their infield offense and bolster their bullpen as they eye a postseason berth. Despite having one of the best starting rotations in baseball, the Mariners have struggled offensively throughout the season. This lack of production at the plate has cost them their lead in the AL West, putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy.
The Mariners’ starting pitching is strong enough to carry a league-average offense into the postseason. However, their offense has been well below average, ranking 26th or worse in key categories like batting average, runs scored, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and OPS. In an effort to shake things up, the Mariners parted ways with long-time manager Scott Servais on August 22. While the leadership change was intended to spark the team, it became clear that more was needed to close out the regular season on a high note and secure a playoff spot.
To address their offensive struggles, the Mariners are now turning to their farm system, promoting three key prospects who could provide the spark needed to overtake the first-place Houston Astros and win the division.
1. Promote Cole Young
With a playoff run on the line, the Mariners are expected to promote Cole Young, their second-ranked prospect and the 36th overall prospect in baseball, according to MLB.com. The Mariners selected Young with the 21st pick in the 2022 draft and have been carefully developing his talent. The 21-year-old infielder has been impressive at Double-A Arkansas, posting a .756 OPS with 23 doubles, 59 runs scored, and 22 stolen bases in 112 games.
Young, who can play both shortstop and second base, could be a valuable addition to the Mariners’ infield. Although J.P. Crawford recently returned from the injured list, the team still needs an offensive boost, and Young’s versatility could provide just that. His ability to get on base and his speed on the base paths could help Seattle’s run production down the stretch.
2. Bring Back Tyler Locklear
Tyler Locklear, a 23-year-old first baseman, is another player the Mariners are likely to call up. Despite struggling in his previous stints in the majors, Locklear, the Mariners’ sixth-ranked prospect and 89th overall in baseball, has rebounded in Triple-A Tacoma. In August, Locklear posted a .762 OPS with four home runs, 14 RBI, and 18 runs scored.
Locklear’s raw power and ability to get on base make him a potential difference-maker for the Mariners, especially as they seek to improve their offense at first base and designated hitter. His solid defense and offensive potential could be crucial in the Mariners’ push for the playoffs.
3. Consider Harry Ford
Harry Ford, the Mariners’ fourth-ranked prospect and 52nd overall in baseball, is also on the radar for a potential promotion. Ford has shown consistent production across four different levels since being drafted by the Mariners in 2021. While he has only advanced to Double-A so far, Ford’s talent and versatility make him a player to watch, even though his primary position may not immediately fill a critical need for Seattle.
As the Mariners gear up for the final stretch of the season, these promotions could provide the offensive spark they desperately need. With the right mix of homegrown talent and experienced leadership, the Mariners are positioning themselves for a strong playoff push.
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