The Seattle Mariners shored up their outfield depth in a deal with the Miami Marlins
With under two hours remaining before the trade deadline, the Seattle Mariners have made yet another move. They have acquired veteran outfielder Cameron Maybin from the Marlins. In return, the Marlins have received a prospect that has yet to be named and international pool money. Maybin had been linked to trade talks with the Yankees and was expected to be traded at the deadline. He hit .251/.338/.343 in 99 games this season with the Marlins.
The trade not only helps the M’s outfield, it answers questions related to Robinson Cano‘s role when he returns. When Dee Gordon was moved to fill his spot at second base, it initially seemed to be a temporary fill. But with the trade for Maybin, Gordon will not move back to center field when Cano returns. Not to mention, Cano is ineligible for postseason play and they would need someone to fill his spot anyways. Most likely, Cano will instead either play first base upon return or be used as a designated hitter. He could still be a valuable piece to atleast help the Mariners reach the postseason though his season will be over at that point.
Cameron Maybin is a solid upgrade to their lineup as well as in the field. He doesn’t provide a ton of pop with only 3 home-runs on the year. But he adds a solid on-base percentage and can hold his own defensively. Maybin is expected to be the M’s starter in center field for the remaining of the year and into the playoffs.
The Mariners have made yet another move in an already busy week. Just yesterday, they traded for a pair of relievers for Zach Duke from the Twins and Adam Warren from the Yankees.
With the Maybin trade being the only bat they acquired, pitching was obviously the top priority at the deadline for the Seattle Mariners.