Kansas City Royals rumors: 3 trade destinations for Andrew Benintendi
By David Hill
Seattle Mariners
The Mariners have never been shy about making trades in the Jerry Dipoto Era. Now that they are on the cusp of ending their playoff drought, they are likely to make even more moves.
Outfield could be one area they look at. While Kyle Lewis is in the midst of his rehab, the Mariners may not want to pin their hopes on the young outfielder. Meanwhile, Jesse Winker has posted a 104 OPS+ in his 344 plate appearances entering Friday, a barely above average mark. As he has also cost the Mariners nine runs defensively, an upgrade would seem to be needed.
Acquiring Andrew Benintendi from the Kansas City Royals would provide exactly that. Not only would he be that defensive upgrade they need, but he would provide another solid bat into a potentially dangerous Mariners’ lineup, and one that could slot in at the top of the lineup.
Such a move would not necessarily push Winker to the bench. Abraham Toro had been a revelation last year but has been dreadful this season. Seattle’s primary designated hitter has posted a 61 OPS+ in his 257 plate appearances, hardly what anyone would have wanted. Putting Winker into that role, and using Toro as more of a utility option, could be the best case scenario for the Mariners’ playoff push.
The Mariners are always looking to get more athletic and upgrade their roster. Adding Andrew Benintendi would help on both fronts.