With the MLB trade deadline approaching, the Seattle Mariners are emerging as a team to keep an eye on. They face a key decision on whether to bring in reinforcements to boost their chances of making the playoffs for just the second time in 23 years.
Reports suggest Seattle is targeting a middle-of-the-order bat at a corner infield position. Given their strong farm system, they have the assets to swing a deal, and according to The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, they “line up perfectly with the Diamondbacks” in potential trades for Josh Naylor or a possible reunion with Eugenio Suarez.
Mariners president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto is feeling mounting pressure to make a move that upgrades the lineup. Bowden emphasized that with a deep prospect pool and ownership willing to raise payroll, “there’s no excuse not to make a trade this year.”
Will the Mariners pursue Naylor or Suarez through a trade?
After spending much of the 2025 season atop the American League West, the Mariners now risk falling short once again—potentially finishing behind the Houston Astros and missing the playoffs for a second straight year.
Last season, Seattle made a flurry of deadline moves, acquiring outfielder Randy Arozarena, veteran infielder Justin Turner, and relievers Yimi Garcia and JT Chargois. But despite those additions, the club fell short as Houston held on to claim the division title.
This year, the Mariners once again feature a formidable starting rotation—when healthy—and have several key contributors in the lineup. Catcher Cal Raleigh is having a career-best season, leading the majors in home runs and earning recognition as the top catcher in the game.
Adding a player like Josh Naylor or Eugenio Suárez could give the offense a needed boost. But the bigger question is whether a power-hitting corner infielder is all that stands between Seattle and a return to the postseason.
The Mariners’ weakest spots offensively are at first base and right field. However, right fielder Victor Robles—who broke out in 2024—could soon return from a dislocated shoulder that’s kept him out since April, potentially bringing stability to the outfield.
Meanwhile, first baseman Josh Naylor is having an impressive debut season with the Diamondbacks and would be an ideal fit batting fifth behind Raleigh, providing lineup protection in the cleanup spot.
With Arizona underperforming early, they may be inclined to sell at the deadline. But the Mariners must first decide if they’re truly committed to going for it this season. The Astros, weakened by Kyle Tucker’s offseason departure and a string of injuries, finally look beatable. Yet they still hold a 3.5-game lead over Seattle entering Thursday’s games.
Be the first to comment