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The Seattle Mariners are at the center of offseason speculation, with reports linking them to Chicago Cubs free agent Ian Happ. According to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, there is considerable buzz around Seattle's pursuit of Happ, who has been with the Cubs since 2017 and is now available on the open market.
Happ, a four-time Gold Glove winner in the outfield, would provide an immediate defensive upgrade for the Mariners while also adding offensive firepower. Last season, he slugged 24 home runs, drove in 68 RBIs, and batted .218 over 156 games.
Front Office Priorities
Mariners president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto has acknowledged that the left side of the outfield is a need, emphasizing defense as a top priority. MLB insider Jon Morosi reported on Wednesday that Seattle's interest in Happ is partly due to his connection with new manager Jason Kanzler, who served as the Cubs' director of player personnel for the past three seasons.
In other Mariners news, Nightengale notes that the team has no plans to re-sign shortstop J.P. Crawford, who is also a free agent. Crawford, who has been with Seattle since 2019, hit .221 with 14 home runs and 40 RBIs last season and may find himself with a new team in 2025.
Additionally, there is speculation that Seattle will trade one of its starting pitchers to acquire position player help. Nightengale lists George Kirby and Emerson Hancock as potential trade candidates, though Ryan Sloan is considered untouchable. Kirby posted a 4.33 ERA with 148 strikeouts and a 9-11 record, while Hancock recorded a 3.57 ERA with 126 strikeouts and a 7-8 record.
The Mariners are coming off a 76-86 season and a third-place finish in the AL West. With Kanzler at the helm, the team is eager to make impactful moves this offseason and contend in 2025.
Originally reported by yahoo.