Seattle Mariners Looking to Trade Seth Smith, but is it the Right Move?
By Paul Taylor
Fresh off picking up Seth Smith’s club option for 2017, the Seattle Mariners are reportedly listening to offers for the veteran outfielder.
As per Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times, the Seattle Mariners are looking to move Seth Smith. In some respects this may comes as a surprise, given the club are fresh off picking up his $7 million club option for 2017.
However, according to Divish, this is nothing new for the Mariners. Apparently, they has always been willing to listen to offers for Smith.
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He is coming off a season when he appeared in 139 games and hit a career-high 63 RBIs, at the ripe old age of 34. His batting line for the 2016 campaign was .249/.342/.415.
Smith was particularly effective against right-handed pitchers, as evidenced by batting .256 against them, while hitting 58 of his 63 RBIs and all 16 of his home runs. The question is, why would the organization be looking to move a player, who also provides valuable veteran leadership?
The reasoning comes down to two factors, with the first being the number of younger outfielders the Mariners have already acquired during the offseason. With Mitch Haniger specifically earmarked as being capable of taking over the right field role full time, the Jackson, Mississippi native has become expendable.
The second factor is in relation to the $7 million Smith is now owed in 2017. This is money which could be used elsewhere, especially general manager Jerry Dipoto’s attempts to find a quality starting pitcher.
Teams which could theoretically be interested in the 2004 second round draft pick, include the Toronto Blue Jays and Baltimore Orioles. The thinking is he would provide a quality left-handed hitting corner alternative, without the shackles of a long-term commitment.
Overall, it would be a shame to see someone affectionately referred to as “Dad” leave the organization. However, given that Smith is a career platoon player, together with the aforementioned bevy of outfielders, the Mariners are well-positioned to replace him.
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What’s your take on the Mariners’ reported attempts to trade Smith? Further, how would you sum up the moves made in general so far this offseason? Are you optimistic, frustrated or just taking a “wait and see” approach? Share your thoughts in the comments section.