Mariners: 4 sneaky targets from the MLB trade deadline for Seattle – ClutchPoints

He seattle mariners they were one of the surprise teams last year when they returned to the playoffs for the first time since 2001. The Mariners hoped that was just the beginning and that they could start planning to play in October on a repeat basis. However, the Mariners are currently just over a .500 team, ranking third in the AL West behind the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers and 4.5 games out of the Wild Card. If they want to return to the playoffs, they will have to makes some moves with the MLB trade deadline approaching.

You have to think that the Astros and Rangers will also make deals. So in order not to fall too far behind, the Mariners need hit the market as hard as they can, at least within their means. However, they will have to be wise in what they offer, since now most of their farm system is currently on your list.

The Mariners will most likely be looking for offensive firepower from the teams. they are currently ranking near the bottom from most offensive categories, including batting average (26), on-base percentage (24) and slugging percentage (24). So let’s take a look at some possible bats.

Although the Mariners generally avoid rental players, Cody Bellinger talent on the plate makes it an exception. The Los Angeles Dodgers opted not to field him last offseason due to his increasing struggles and injury problems. But Bellinger is making up for that this season, hitting .305 with 12 home runs and 34 RBIs, along with 12 stolen bases. Combine that with his defensive versatility and his ability to play any position in the outfield, along with first base, and it makes him an attractive trade target. With only a one-year contract in Chicago, the possibility of the Mariners waiving him to a long-term contract adds an added incentive to pursue him.

The Chicago White Sox appear to have been ready to be sellers since the first month of the season. That’s probably because they have. Their struggles this season have put them in almost every trade scenario possible with every team competing in the league. One of his often rumored trading block options the one mentioned is shortstop Tim Anderson, a former American League batting champion. Anderson hasn’t had the year expected of him, hitting just .227 with a 47 OPS+. Most believe that’s because Anderson needs a change of scenery in a different lineup. Aside from his lack of offensive production, acquiring Anderson would mean a position change, as he would move to second base, replacing a struggling Kolten Wong. This move would strengthen the Mariners’ infield and provide depth to their lineup and hopefully a great bat.

Jake Cronenworth, 2B, Rocky Mountains

If Anderson is the answer or too expensive, perhaps the Colorado Rockies’ Jake Cronenworth would be an option? Cronenworth has experienced a slight drop in performance this season after two consecutive All-Star seasons. However, his track record and his consistent ability to slug him could make him an attractive trade target for the Mariners. With Cronenworth’s ability to drive in runs and contribute offensively, the Mariners would get a much-needed boost to their lineup from him.

Joey Meneses, DH, Nationals

Joey Meneses, designated hitter for the Washington Nationals, represents an alternate option for the Mariners. While larger acquisitions may be the priority, Meneses would still bring an upgrade to the Mariners’ lineup as a designated hitter and backup first baseman option. Making his MLB debut at the age of 30 after the Nationals traded Juan Soto, Meneses showcased his power by hitting 13 home runs in just 56 games, establishing himself as a productive player. This year, he’s hitting .278 with an OPS + league average of 100. On a meager Nationals team, he’s been one of the bright spots. Placed in a deeper lineup, he might make some noise.