The Seattle Mariners are dealing with a significant challenge in the 2025 MLB season. Injuries have drastically altered their infield lineup. With key players sidelined, the team is actively looking for potential additions to bolster their roster.
Marinersโ Infield Woes: A Series of Unfortunate Events
Injuries have rapidly changed the landscape of the Marinersโ infield. Second baseman Ryan Bliss is out for four to five months following a tear in his left biceps and subsequent surgery. Additionally, first baseman Luke Raley has transitioned to the outfield due to a fracture in Victor Roblesโ shoulder, which will keep him out for around 12 weeks. Jorge Polanco is currently limited to designated hitter duties as he recovers from knee surgery and deals with side discomfort.
Impact on Team Performance
These injuries have forced the Mariners to reconsider their infield strategy. The team is currently hitting a combined .200/.303/.333, a clear indication that the infield needs reinforcement. With Rowdy Tellez and Donovan Solano struggling to produce, the Mariners are exploring all possible avenues to improve their lineup.
Exploring the Trade Market
Major trades early in the season are rare but not impossible. For instance, the Brewers recently acquired young right-hander Quinn Priester from the Red Sox to address their injury-plagued rotation. Similarly, last yearโs early May trade of Luis Arraez from Miami to San Diego demonstrates that impactful trades can happen before the mid-season mark.
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Current Market Dynamics
Given that the Mariners spent the offseason pursuing trades with little success, it seems unlikely that teams have dramatically changed their stance on player availability just a few weeks into the season. However, the Marinersโ front office is actively โcombingโ through other rosters. They are particularly focusing on veteran players on minor league deals who might have opt-out clauses in April.
Potential External Additions
The Mariners are considering several veteran infielders who are currently performing well in Triple-A. These players include:
- Christian Arroyo (Phillies)
- Scott Kingery (Angels)
- Harold Castro (Royals)
- Nick Gordon (Royals)
- Jake Lamb (Giants)
Veteran Options
While these potential acquisitions may not be headline-grabbing, they could provide the stability and production the Mariners desperately need. Given the low bar for improvement, any of these players could be a valuable addition to the roster.
Internal Solutions: Prospects and Player Development
In addition to exploring external options, the Mariners are also considering promoting from within. Top prospect Cole Young is currently being prioritized for development and is not expected to be rushed to the big leagues. Young is hitting .178/.302/.267 in Triple-A, making it unlikely that he would be an immediate upgrade.
Ben Williamson and Tyler Locklear
Third baseman Ben Williamson is another internal option. Known for his plus defense and contact skills, Williamson is off to a .286/.314/.347 start in Triple-A Tacoma. Last season, he batted .283/.375/.394 across High-A and Double-A. First baseman Tyler Locklear, who struggled in his MLB debut last year, is currently slashing .286/.359/.457 in Triple-A.
Conclusion: Marinersโ Path Forward
The Mariners are at a critical juncture early in the 2025 season. With key players sidelined, the team must navigate a challenging trade market. They also need to consider internal promotions to stabilize their infield.
Whether through external acquisitions or internal development, the Mariners are committed to finding the right mix to improve their performance and remain competitive.
For more detailed coverage on the Marinersโ infield situation, you can read the full article on MLB Trade Rumors.
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