The Seattle Mariners’ lineup is the primary reason why the team isn’t even better in 2024. While the MLB trade deadline offers an opportunity to change things, Seattle may not take the strategy that some assume.
One of the Mariners’ main weaknesses has been a lack of productivity from their designated hitter. As of today, Seattle’s designated hitters have a.585 OPS (second-worst in MLB), a.170/.276/.309 triple-slash line, and a 31.8 percent strikeout rate in 192 plate appearances.
Seattle Mariners lineup statistics: 230 runs scored (27th in MLB),.222 batting average (29th),.298 OBP (27th), and.365 slugging (25th).
It explains why the Mariners have been linked to a Pete Alonso trade in recent MLB reports. The New York Mets appear willing to trade him, and the All-Star first baseman would add plenty of pop to the Mariners’ lineup. Furthermore, he is on an expiring contract, so there will be no long-term financial commitment.
However, Bob Nightengale of USA Today predicts that Seattle may not make a trade for Alonso. Instead, the experienced MLB reporter proposes that the Mariners look for an internal addition by elevating prospect Tyler Locklear.
Tyler Locklear stats:.304/.407/.391, 110 wRC+, and.799 OPS at Triple-A.
Locklear, age 23, has been one of baseball’s most productive prospects this year. The 6-foot-2 first baseman began the season with Seattle’s Double-A affiliate, hitting.291/.401/.532 with a 155 wRC+, 8 home runs, and a.933 OPS before being promoted to Triple-A.
Locklear would be a more cost-effective choice, both financially and in terms of prospect capital. Even if Seattle acquired Alonso in late July, the team would still be responsible for just under half of his contract, which would amount to $10 million or more. However, one disadvantage of relying on a prospect is that many have struggled to make the transition from Triple-A to the majors this year.
For the time being, the Mariners will remain linked to some of baseball’s best hitters in trade rumors. However, given the conjecture over how much money Seattle is ready to take on, a blockbuster deal may not occur this summer.
