Insider: Mariners In "Go Mode", Targeting 4 Big Bats At Trade Deadline

The Seattle Mariners are currently in the driver's seat in the American League West with a 5.0 game lead over the Texas Rangers atop the division.

But that doesn't mean they aren't looking to improve come next month's trade deadline. Their offense is surprisingly mediocre for a first-place team; they sit in 26th spot in the majors in team OPS. They are 29th in batting average and 26th in slugging.

According to baseball insider Jeff Passan the Mariners have four big names on their radar:

Pete Alonso

Yes, from all accounts, it sounds like the Mets will strongly consider trading Polar Bear, if things continue to be as chilly as they are for the Metropolitans in the standings. He'll be a free agent at season's end, and his agent Scott Boras will not allow him to sign an extension before then. The Mets are currently 8 games under .500. First base is one of the spots where the M's could use some help.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Speaking of some first base lumber, Guerrero Jr. is also a name on Seattle's radar, though at this point, most signs are pointing to the Toronto Blue Jays not selling on the face of their franchise just yet. He has one more year of team control after this one before becoming a free agent.

Bo Bichette

Still with the Jays, Bichette has been another name bandied about. He's having a down season, the worst of his career, but his track record is long enough that he would warrant a big trade offer if the Jays were to make him available (also doubtful.) He wouldn't supplant JP Crawford at short for Seattle, but he could be a nice improvement at third base.

Luis Robert Jr.

It appears the Chicago White Sox will indeed be offering up Robert for the right price. The outfielder has massive power and speed, but unfortunately, aside from last season, he spends just as much time on the injured list as on the field. He is back in the lineup now after just coming back from two months out of action with a hip flexor strain. He'd provide a huge offensive boost to the M's outfield and DH spots—as long as he can stay active.