Seattle Mariners Interested in Free Agent Third Baseman After Career-Best Season

The Seattle Mariners are reportedly showing interest in free agent third baseman Jeimer Candelario, following their recent trade of Eugenio Suarez to the Arizona Diamondbacks.

This move appears to be a strategic effort to fill the void left at third base and enhance the team's roster. Suarez was exchanged for catcher Seby Zavala and pitcher Carlos Vargas, marking the end of his two-season stint with the Mariners.

The Mariners, having missed the playoffs in 2023 with an 88-74 record, are keen to strengthen their team composition, especially after ending a long postseason drought in 2022.

Free agent Jeimer Candelario is among the Mariners’ options at third base, following the trade of Eugenio Suárez to the DBacks today. @MLBNetwork @SeattleSports
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 22, 2023

Candelario, 29, is a versatile player who split the last season between the Washington Nationals and the Chicago Cubs.

With a batting average of .251, an on-base percentage (OBP) of .336, and a slugging percentage of .471, Candelario hit 22 home runs and 70 RBIs over 505 at-bats in 2023.

His performance shows a potential upgrade for the Mariners, especially when compared to Suarez's decline in the 2023 season.

Jeimer Candelario is 'among the Mariners' options' at 3B, per @jonmorosi pic.twitter.com/68vwSWzSxB
— B/R Walk-Off (@BRWalkoff) November 22, 2023

Candelario's power-hitting capability, with career highs in home runs and RBI, combined with a slightly better average and fewer strikeouts than Suarez, makes him an attractive option for the Mariners.

However, as he is currently a free agent, the Mariners would need to compete with other interested teams to secure his services.

While the Mariners are focused on strengthening their infield, it's also noted that they might need to address their outfield following the potential departure of Teoscar Hernández via free agency.

However, their primary target for the outfield seems to be Lourdes Gurriel Jr., who had a solid season helping the Arizona Diamondbacks reach the World Series.

This indicates a broader strategy by the Mariners to address key positions to enhance their chances of a stronger performance in the upcoming season. Photo Credit: David Reginek-USA TODAY Sports