For the Seattle Mariners, the 2025-26 offseason has been a bit unpredictable. They have had some success, mostly by re-signing free agent first baseman Josh Naylor to a multi-year return. They also added some sensible depth in relief pitcher Jose Ferrer and backup catcher Andrew Knizner. But, they have failed to address their current vacancies at second and third base. Those are two gaping holes in the lineup as the 2026 season draws nearer.
ESPN.com columnist Alden Gonzalez recently handed out mid-winter grades of the MLB teams, evaluating not only what the teams have accomplished thus far, but also what they still need to do. Obviously, he addressed the elephant in the room: the key spots left open by free agent 2B Jorge Polanco and third sacker Eugenio Suarez.