TheSeattle Marinershave to make a decision as the trade deadline approaches. Do they gamble, or do they tweak?
In this particular context, an example of a “gamble” would be sending some combination ofTaijuan Walker,James Paxton,D.J. Peterson,Nick Franklinor other prospects to the Tampa Bay Rays forDavid Priceand/orBen Zobrist. That would be a major deal for both clubs.
More from Seattle Mariners
- Seattle Mariners trade James Paxton. Deja vu or re-imagining?
- Seattle Mariners: November mailbag – Face of the franchise and more
- Seattle Mariners: Zunino part of 5 player swap. What it means for the M’s.
- Seattle Mariners: Mitch Haniger, and Edgar Martinez headed to Japan
- Seattle Mariners: Trading for Joc Pederson from L.A. – 3 scenarios
A “tweak” would be the acquisition ofJosh Willingham,Marlon ByrdorDayan Viciedo. In other words, a player that could potentially help the club, but would not necessarily make a huge impact or be a long-term solution.
Certainly the Mariners could do both, but from a philosphical standpoint the club has to decide whether they are going to “go for it” or be content to build a winner slowly over a couple of years. The Los Angeles Angels and Oakland A’s have made some big deals, so they are definitely pushing their chips to the middle of the table.
The ongoing question is whether the Mariners can make the playoffs with this roster. So far, the M’s have been winning games with this squad, despite the offensive deficiencies. If the pitching holds up and a couple more guys can contribute on offense, the team could make the postseason without major moves.
Unfortunately, players get hurt (Michael Saunders) or continue to struggle at the plate (Brad MillerandDustin Ackley). You would hate for the Mariners to miss an opportunity to putFelix HernandezandHisashi Iwakumaon the mound in the playoffs just because the front office was a little nervous.
If the Mariners are going to make a deal, they should make adeal. Either go big, or go home. Tweaks are boring, and they probably aren’t going to put this team over the top.
Add us as a preferred source onGoogleLoading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations