Mariners Target Left Side Infield Upgrades via Trade This Offseason

The Seattle Mariners are prioritizing improvements on the left side of their infield during the current offseason, according to reports relayed by Adam Jude of the Seattle Times. President of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto indicated that the team aims to enhance its infield defense and offensive production at the hot corner, where the club finished last in OPS this past season. With Colt Emerson providing defensive versatility at both shortstop and third base, the front office feels comfortable targeting either position.

Dipoto noted that addressing these roster needs will most likely happen via the trade market. The franchise has internally discussed or inquired about a wide array of infielders across the league, ranging from division rivals such as the Houston Astros and Los Angeles Angels to more realistic partners like the Baltimore Orioles and San Francisco Giants. Baltimore's Jordan Westburg and San Francisco's Casey Schmitt emerge as some of the more plausible trade candidates, though health concerns surround both players following injuries.

While the Mariners explore external additions, general manager Justin Hollander confirmed that elite young right-hander Ryan Sloan is considered untouchable in trade discussions. Sloan, a 2024 second-round draft pick, recorded a 3.73 ERA across 22 starts at Double-A in 2026 alongside a dominant 30.9% strikeout rate. The organization intends to hold onto elite arms like Sloan and Kade Anderson as they prepare for the upcoming major-league campaign.

What to watch next: Monitor how Seattle balances its search for a starting infielder with potential trade inquiries involving rotation pieces like George Kirby or Emerson Hancock.