3 players for Seattle Mariners to target this offseason
By David Hill
Masataka Yoshida
The Seattle Mariners have been one of the top landing spots for Japanese talent over the years. Ever since Ichiro ended up in Seattle and blossomed into stardom, plenty of other Japanese players have followed in his footsteps.
It is not a surprise that the Mariners would look to keep that pipeline open considering the success they have had. Likewise, it is not a surprise that the Mariners would look to improve their lineup with another Japanese player in Masataka Yoshida.
Indeed, the Mariners have reportedly been scouting Yoshida, and, according to Jon Morosi, will be one of his top suitors. As the Mariners came up short against the Astros in part because of an inability to get runners on base and string at bats together, landing an on base dynamo could make a difference. And the Mariners do need help in their corner outfield spots.
But it is fair to wonder if Yoshida can be an answer in the outfield. Frankly, he is not even close to a good defensive option as he is tentative when in the outfield, is strictly limited to left, and is best served as a designated hitter. Unless the Mariners feel that his defensive woes can be fixed through coaching and getting additional reps in the outfield, he might not be the answer when it comes to finding that corner outfielder.
The Seattle Mariners need players that can get on base and keep a rally going. Masataka Yoshida would be a perfect fit.