The Seattle Mariners have made it clear that they have their shortstop of the present and future. General manager Jerry Dipoto stated that J.P. Crawford will be the Mariners’ shortstop, not just in 2022, but moving forward as well. Their interest in the shortstop market would involve those players moving to second base to accommodate Crawford, leaving one to speculate that they are targeting Marcus Semien in free agency.
That may not be the case. According to reports, the Mariners are also looking at Trevor Story, and are intrigued about the idea of moving him to second base.
Seattle Mariners considering Trevor Story for second base
Story would certainly be an upgrade for the lineup. While he produced a disappointing .251/.329/.471 batting line in his 595 plate appearances, hitting 24 homers and 34 doubles while stealing 20 bases, his track record speaks for itself. He has proven to be a solid power hitter and a threat on the basepaths, someone that could solidify the middle of the Mariners’ batting order.
He is also an exemplary shortstop. Story has saved 69 runs in just six seasons at the position, and was certainly deserving of a Gold Glove award in that time. As strange as it may seem to move such a brilliant defensive shortstop to another position, Story should be just as good at second.
There are risks to such a potential signing. Story is not nearly the same hitter away from Coors Field, with a .241/.310/.442 batting line in his 1544 plate appearances, hitting 63 homers and 80 doubles. While he was still reasonably productive, he is not close to the same player.
But the rewards outweigh the risks. Story can be an impact bat in the middle of the order, a dynamic presence that the Mariners would need. He would not be enough to transform the lineup, but Story would be a great start towards bringing Seattle back to the postseason.
The Seattle Mariners are reportedly interested in Trevor Story to play second. As odd of a move as it may be, he would fit perfectly in their lineup.