Texas Rangers: Possible Landing Spots for Ian Desmond
By Jason Reed
Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners have already made moves this off-season, acquiring Jean Segura from the Arizona Diamondbacks. So with that being said, Seattle’s middle infield is now locked in with Robinson Cano at second and Segura back at his natural shortstop. However, the Seattle Mariners outfield isn’t the best, and they could benefit from taking Desmond from a division rival. Nelson Cruz is a primary DH, and while Leonys Martin and Seth Smith are okay they didn’t have a single outfielder bat over .250. Desmond would provide a great spark alongside Cruz, Cano, Kyle Seager, and Jean Segura.
Desmond would slot perfectly in the number two spot in Seattle. Segura leading off, followed by Desmond, Cano, Cruz, and Seager is a deadly lineup. Obviously Seattle could tweak this in any way they like, but that is a solid core of hitters to build around. With Seattle being so close to making the playoffs for the first time since 2001 they need to make moves. Desmond would not only bolster their current line-up but would deplete the line-up of Texas, being a win-win.
He would likely play left field for Seattle, replacing Ben Gamel. Martin is the better outfielder by a good amount, so keeping him in center should be a priority. With Desmond slotted in left, we may see his defensive numbers increase as it is arguably an easier position to field. Then, on days they need to rest Segura, Cano or Seager, Desmond can fill into the infield.
Desmond would find himself in a very similar situation as Howie Kendrick was with the Dodgers in 2016.