The long wait is finally over for the Seattle Mariners.
For the first time since 2001, they finally reached the playoffs. But just getting there was not enough; the Mariners also surprised everyone by defeating the Blue Jays in the Wild Card Round. While they were swept by the Astros, it was a far more competitive series than one would have expected, showing that the Mariners are closer than one would think.
Three players for Seattle Mariners to target this offseason
For all of their success, and the optimism surrounding the Mariners heading into the offseason, there are plenty of holes on the roster. They need to find a middle infielder, another run producer, an outfielder, and possibly another option in the rotation, and there is plenty of work to be done. However, with Jerry Dipoto as the general manager, moves are going to be made.
The Seattle Mariners are not content with having ended their postseason drought. Let’s look at three possible targets as they look to take the next step.
Trea Turner
For the second consecutive offseason, the Seattle Mariners are looking to shore up the middle of their infield.
Last year, this led to Adam Frazier finally coming to Seattle. That marriage did not turn out as either side hoped for, with Frazier set to depart in free agency and the Mariners again looking for help at second. And, once again, they are looking for a shortstop that could switch positions given the presence of J.P. Crawford.
This time, Dipoto is not as adamant that Crawford will not move from short. While that is not their preference, the Mariners could slide him over to second if need be. While such a thought could be a matter of semantics in his wording, the door is open, especially if they can add another dymanic piece to their roster.
Trea Turner would be exactly the type of player that the Mariners should be looking at. He can play either second or short while continuing Dipoto’s quest to make the roster more athletic. His blend of power and speed would work perfectly in a lineup that already features Julio Rodriguez, giving Seattle another all around star that can cause plenty of havoc. If Turner wants to stay at short, then it should be an easy decision to move Crawford over.
The Seattle Mariners are looking for another piece in the middle of their infield. Trea Turner would be a perfect fit for them going forward.