The Seattle Mariners head into MLB games today squarely in the mix for one of three wild card spots in the American League. With significant competition around them and the MLB trade deadline drawing closer, the club’s approach to upgrading the roster could determine a lot for the organization moving forward.
Writing for MLB.com, Mariners’ reporter Daniel Kramer explained that while right field could be addressed this summer, it wouldn’t be an acquisition to fill a long-term need. However, Seattle could focus more on adding a first baseman ahead of the MLB trade deadline.
“Right field is also an area they will examine but is currently not as high of a priority, given that they expect Victor Robles back at some point in September and that he’ll return next year after signing a contract extension last August…That essentially leaves Seattle with six weeks to get by before potentially adding another first baseman to the mix.”
MLB.com’s Daniel Kramer on what positions the Seattle Mariners could focus on at MLB trade deadline
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Entering play on Friday, per FanGraphs, Mariners’ first basemen ranked 14th in OPS (.722) and 19th in batting average (.243). While the OPS isn’t necessarily an issue when examining the season-long stats, Seattle’s first basemen rank 19th in OPS since May 1.
Right field is also an obvious area of weakness right now. Heading into the weekend, Seattle’s right fielders had the third-worst OPS (.568) and the fifth-worst batting average (.203) in baseball at the position. Victor Robles could help, but a best-case scenario doesn’t have him returning for another two-plus months.
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As for potential MLB trade candidates who could be targeted by Seattle, Arizona Diamondbacks‘ first baseman Josh Naylor (.822 OPS) stands out as a left-handed bat who would be a half-season rental. However, it’s still uncertain if the Diamondbacks are willing to be sellers.
The Mariners could also target the likes of Baltimore Orioles‘ Ryan O’Hearn (.858 OPS) or Milwaukee Brewers‘ first baseman Rhys Hoskins (.755 OPS). Considering Seattle still boasts one of the better farm systems in baseball, it’s well-equipped to be an effective buyer in July.
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