Mariners’ Budget Constraints for 2025
The Seattle Mariners are navigating a challenging offseason with a limited budget of $15-20 million to enhance their roster for the 2025 season. Their projected payroll is estimated to be between $135 million and $140 million, which includes Polanco’s $750,000 buyout and significant raises for arbitration-eligible players like Arozarena, Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, and Cal Raleigh. If the Mariners aim for a year-end payroll of $150 million to $155 million, they will have approximately $15-20 million left to spend.
Key Roster Gaps to Address
Despite a quiet offseason, the Mariners have notable roster gaps that need addressing before they can contend for a playoff spot. Key areas needing improvement include second base and third base positions. They also need to develop a platoon plan at first base alongside Luke Raley. The team is relying on injured relievers Matt Brash and Gregory Santos to return to health.
Trade Talks and Potential Acquisitions
The Mariners are engaged in exploratory trade talks with other clubs, primarily seeking an upgrade at third base. They have held discussions with the Philadelphia Phillies regarding Alec Bohm. In initial trade talks, the Phillies asked for one of the Mariners’ top pitchers, Logan Gilbert or George Kirby, in exchange for Bohm. The Mariners balked at the asking price set by the Phillies. Bohm, 28 years old, had a strong 2024 season with a .280 batting average, 15 home runs, 44 doubles, 97 RBIs, and a .779 OPS. He earned his first All-Star Game bid that year.
Challenges in Acquiring Alec Bohm
Bohm’s performance declined after missing over two weeks in early September due to a left hand strain. Upon return, he hit .170 in 12 regular-season games and .077 in the postseason. The Phillies are considering shaking up their roster for the 2025 season and view Bohm as a likely candidate to be moved due to his age and remaining club control before free agency. Trading Bohm would allow the Phillies to pursue an upgrade at third base, such as free agent Alex Bregman.
Mariners’ Search for Infield Upgrades
The Mariners aim to replace free agent third baseman Josh Rojas, who hit .225 with eight home runs and 31 RBIs in 2024. Bohm would be an upgrade but may not justify the high asking price from the Phillies. Additionally, the Mariners are looking to upgrade at first base and remain engaged with free agents Carlos Santana and Justin Turner for first base/designated hitter roles. They have also held preliminary talks with the Chicago Cubs regarding second baseman Nico Hoerner.
Winter Meetings and Future Plans
The Mariners are actively seeking to upgrade their third base position as the MLB Winter Meetings approach, scheduled for December 9-12 in Dallas. Mariners President of Baseball Operations, Jerry Dipoto, aims for the team to be successful at the event and has expressed interest in improving the infield, particularly second and third base, as well as finding a first baseman to pair with Luke Raley. There is speculation that Seattle might reunite with veterans Carlos Santana or Justin Turner for first base and designated hitter roles due to their valued veteran presence.
Exploring Trade Options
Signing Santana or Turner would leave the Mariners with approximately $10-12 million to find starters at second and third base. High-profile free agents like Pete Alonso, Christian Walker, and Alex Bregman are expected to command over $20 million annually, making them less likely targets for Seattle. The Mariners may explore trade options instead of free agency to secure a starter at third base. According to Ken Rosenthal from The Athletic, Seattle is prioritizing upgrading third base while planning to handle second base internally with players like Dylan Moore, Ryan Bliss, and Cole Young (21st overall pick in 2022).
Potential Acquisition of Brandon Lowe
ESPN writer Kiley McDaniel lists the Seattle Mariners as a potential destination for former All-Star infielder Brandon Lowe. The MLB Winter Meetings will take place from December 9-12 in Dallas, with all 30 teams represented, including the Seattle Mariners. The Mariners are seeking starters at second and third base for 2025 and are looking for a first baseman to pair with Luke Raley. There is speculation about potential trades involving the Mariners, particularly in the trade market. McDaniel suggests a possible trade between the Mariners and Tampa Bay Rays, focusing on acquiring Brandon Lowe.
Concerns and Opportunities with Brandon Lowe
Brandon Lowe has been rumored to be moved this offseason, and Seattle is considered a potential destination due to their need for infield upgrades. Lowe’s contract includes $10.5 million earnings in 2025 and an $11.5 million club option for 2026. In 2024, Lowe hit .244 with 21 home runs and 58 RBIs in just 107 games played. Concerns exist regarding Lowe’s injury history, having played only 281 total games over the last three seasons due to various injuries. The Mariners recently declined Jorge Polanco’s $12 million club option after an injury-plagued season, raising questions about acquiring another injury-prone player like Lowe at a similar cost.
Potential Trade Pieces and Future Prospects
Potential trade pieces from Seattle could include outfielder Lazaro Montes or first baseman Tyler Locklear; however, trading top prospects like Jurrangelo Cijntje or Montes might be unlikely given their high potential. A “low-risk, high-reward” scenario is suggested if Seattle can acquire Lowe without giving up top prospects and if he remains healthy to provide significant offensive upgrades at second base. If successful, the team could pick up his option for 2026 or negotiate an extension; otherwise, prospect Cole Young could take over the position in 2026 if Lowe underperforms or gets injured again.
