Seattle Mariners Trade Rumors: Is Justin Upton Back On The Radar?

Seattle Mariners Trade Rumors: Is Justin Upton Back on the Radar?

WithAlex Riossigning with theKansas City Royals,another opportunityfor theSeattle Marinersto complete their outfield has fallen by the wayside.After apparently having the inside trackonMelky Cabrerabefore he signed with theChicago White Sox, time is running out for the Mariners as spring training fast approaches.

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However, all is not lost for Seattle.According to Bob DuttonofThe News Tribune,Justin Uptonmay well be back on the radar.

By all accounts, theAtlanta Braveshave lowered their demands for the outfielder. When the Mariners previously inquired about Upton, they were advised that any trade would have to include hot pitching prospect,Taijuan Walker.

As you can imagine, Seattle were not prepared to entertain any such deal. However, with the Braves apparently no longer asking for Walker, the time seems perfect for the Mariners to strike.

General ManagerJack Zduriencikand the rest of the front office have long been fans of Upton. In fact, they actually agreed a trade for him back in 2013, when he was with theArizona Diamondbacks.

Feb 18, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners general manager Jack Zduriencik speaks to the media during MLB media day at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Unfortunately for the Mariners, the deal fell through after Upton used the no-trade clause in his contract, which included Seattle. However, the 27-year old’s contract, which only has one season remaining, no longer includes such a clause.

Certainly, adding the two-time All-Star would be a massive boost for the Mariners heading into the 2015 campaign. Seattle needs another bat and Upton appears to be entering his prime, as evidenced by 29 home runs and a career-high 102 RBIs during this past season.

As you would expect, Seattle isn’t the only team in the mix for Upton. Other teams interested in the two-time silver slugger, include the Royals,San Francisco Giants,Baltimore OriolesandTexas Rangers.

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