Seattle Mariners have potential ace in the hole with Kris Bryant

It is no secret that the Seattle Mariners are not done looking to upgrade their roster. While their stated focus is going to be on the pitching staff, they could use another impact bat, particularly at third base. As such, they are considered a potential landing spot for Kris Bryant whenever the lockout comes to an end.

Although the Mariners are going to have plenty of competition for Bryant’s services, they may also have an advantage. Reliever Paul Sewald is a long time friend of Bryant’s and has been trying to get him to join forces in the Pacific Northwest.

Seattle Mariners hoping Paul Sewald can make impact on Kris Bryant again

Sewald had success in convincing Bryant to join forces with him once before. He was able to get him to head to the University of San Diego and play ball with him there. It would be just like old times if Bryant was to head to Seattle.

Obviously, there is a lot more at stake this time. Bryant is looking to get paid after the Cubs delayed his service time just enough to force an extra year of team control upon him. As one of the top players in free agency, he will have plenty of interested suitors.

It is easy to see why. Bryant had a strong rebound campaign in 2021, posting a .265/.353/.481 batting line in his 586 plate appearances between the Giants and Cubs, hitting 25 homers and 32 doubles while stealing ten bases.

Bryant was also more than his production with the bat. In addition to playing at his accustomed third base, he spent time at first and at all three spots in the outfield. Even if none of the interested teams would be looking at him as a center fielder, it does help to know that he can move over in a pinch.

This also fits with the Mariners’ plans. They have been looking for players that can not only make an impact, but also have a great deal of flexibility. Bryant fills in all of those boxes perfectly. With Sewald on the roster, maybe the Mariners can get their man.

Kris Bryant would be a perfect fit for the Seattle Mariners. They might even have some unexpected help in bringing him to the Pacific Northwest.