The Seattle Mariners have been in the market for a bat to pair with Julio Rodriguez, Ty France, and Cal Raleigh in hopes of returning to the post-season in 2024 after missing out last season. The Mariners shipped out Jarred Kelenic, Marco Gonzalez, and Eugenio Suarez during the offseason, leading many to fear the worst regarding next season’s roster outlook as budgeting rumors started to fly. The Mariners made their first addition via free agency on Christmas Eve.
C/DH – Mitch Garver
Mitch Garver was with the division rival Texas Rangers last season but signed a two-year $24 Million deal with the Mariners Christmas Eve, giving the fan base something to be merry about. Garver has struggled at times with staying on the field, but last season, he hit .270 over the course of 87 Games and 344 plate appearances for the World Series Champions. Garver has plenty of power upside, hitting 19 last season while driving in 50 runs, but just a few years back with the Twins, he Crushed 31 home runs in only 93 games with the Twins. Garver will be hitting in the middle of the Mariner’s order, being a regular fixture at the DH spot this coming season.
Summary
The Mariners needed some support on offense, and Mitch Garver can provide just that this season. Even if they only get 95-110 games from Mitch, the team will reap the benefits of his signing, and if he stays healthy and can be active for 3/4 of a season, it might just be a steal. I have been asking for a bat that can hit for average, and Garver, when right, can do just that while providing plenty of power to protect Rodrigues, Raleigh, or France in the lineup. I am excited to see the next move for Seattle: a corner outfielder, maybe Matt Chapman, to play third. Spring training is right around the corner!
