Mariners Await Juan Soto’s Decision
The Seattle Mariners are in a holding pattern as the baseball world waits for Juan Soto to make his decision. Soto, a highly anticipated free agent for 2024, has drawn comparisons to past free agents like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani. His availability has caused a delay in other teams’ offseason plans, including the Mariners, who are not actively pursuing him but are affected by the market’s focus on him. Soto has received offers from five major teams: the Yankees, Dodgers, Mets, Red Sox, and Blue Jays. These teams are mostly large-market and East Coast-based, except for the Dodgers. More teams may enter the bidding process for Soto soon, with offers likely going through multiple rounds. Final decisions are expected around the Winter Meetings. Once top free agents like Soto make their decisions, the market for more affordable free agents will open up.
Mariners’ Free Agent Targets
The Mariners have shown interest in two New York-based free agents but are not involved in high-priced negotiations due to their history of avoiding long-term contracts over $100 million. Players like Christian Walker, Hyesong Kim, and Paul Goldschmidt are more realistic targets for the Mariners this offseason. Another player attracting attention is Roki Sasaki, who could fit well with small-market teams. The Mariners might be frontrunners to acquire him. Without significant payroll increases or improvements from existing players, the Mariners may struggle to advance in future seasons. Any major moves by the Mariners will likely occur after top free agents like Soto have signed elsewhere.
Coaching Staff Changes
The Mariners announced their 2025 coaching staff with several notable changes. Eric Young Jr., a former big leaguer, returns to the organization as the first base coach. Kristopher Negrón will shift from first base coach to third base coach, while Manny Acta will move from third base coach to bench coach for manager Dan Wilson. Negrón was a finalist for the White Sox managerial job and is considered a rising star in coaching. The White Sox managerial position ultimately went to Will Venable, Texas Rangers bench coach and former player. Negrón played six years in Major League Baseball with teams including the Cincinnati Reds, Seattle Mariners, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Los Angeles Dodgers. He had a lifetime batting average of .221 with nine home runs, six of which were hit during the 2014 season with the Reds.
New Hitting Coach and Staff Updates
The Mariners hired former Atlanta Braves hitting coach Kevin Seitzer as their new hitting coach. Edgar Martinez will remain on staff overseeing the team’s hitting philosophy but will have a limited travel schedule. Fans are encouraged to follow Inside the Mariners coverage on social media platforms like Facebook and “X” (formerly Twitter). Related articles discuss potential trades involving Bryan Woo, positive injury news about reliever Matt Brash, targeting veteran relievers for 2025, and Casey Sadler’s retirement announcement.
Impact of Free Agent Market on Mariners
The Mariners’ offseason strategy is heavily influenced by the free agent market, particularly the decisions of top players like Soto. The team’s approach to free agency reflects their cautious spending habits, as they avoid long-term contracts over $100 million. This strategy has led them to focus on more affordable targets like Walker, Kim, and Goldschmidt. The Mariners’ interest in Roki Sasaki also highlights their focus on acquiring talent that fits within their budget constraints. As the free agent market unfolds, the Mariners will likely make their moves after top players have signed, allowing them to capitalize on opportunities that align with their financial strategy.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season
As the Mariners prepare for the 2025 season, they face the challenge of improving their roster without significant payroll increases. The team’s success will depend on their ability to make strategic acquisitions and develop existing talent. The coaching staff changes, including the addition of Kevin Seitzer and the promotion of Kristopher Negrón, reflect the organization’s commitment to enhancing their player development and performance. With a focus on building a competitive team within their financial means, the Mariners aim to make strategic moves that will position them for success in the upcoming season.
Conclusion
The Seattle Mariners are navigating a complex offseason, influenced by the free agent market and their own financial strategy. As they await the decisions of top players like Juan Soto, the Mariners are focused on making strategic acquisitions that align with their budget constraints. The team’s coaching staff changes and interest in affordable free agents reflect their commitment to building a competitive roster for the 2025 season. With a focus on player development and strategic acquisitions, the Mariners aim to improve their performance and advance in future seasons.
