3 moves for the Seattle Mariners this offseason
By David Hill
Sign Marcus Semien
The Seattle Mariners have been linked to Marcus Semien since before the offseason began. It is seemingly a matter of time before that signing happens.
Semien had the best season of his career last year for the Blue Jays. Despite having three different home stadiums, he produced an excellent 133 OPS+ in his 724 plate appearances, hitting 45 homers and 39 doubles while stealing 15 bases. He made his first All Star Game, and despite moving over to second, won a Gold Glove.
The Mariners made room at second for a dynamic presence in the lineup. Shed Long was designated for assignment, opening a spot on the roster. The current options at second base on the roster, Abraham Toro and Dylan Moore, may be better suited for a utility role.
General manager Jerry Dipoto also could not have been more obvious about his desire to land Semien if he tried. In stating that J.P. Crawford would remain at short, he said that the Mariners would be looking for players at short who can play other positions. As Semien was a Gold Glove second baseman after transitioning from shortstop, it is apparent that Dipoto wants to bring him on board.
Marcus Semien is a perfect fit for the Seattle Mariners. It may just be a matter of time before he ends up in the Pacific Northwest.