The Seattle Mariners' infield has been a point of concern for fans, media, and the team's front office alike. With struggles at first, second, and third base plaguing the team for much of the 2024 season, the need for improvement in this area has become a top priority for the organization. As the offseason approaches, the Mariners are poised to make strategic moves to bolster their infield and position the team for success in the upcoming season.

Unlocking the Potential of the Mariners' Infield

Addressing the First Base Conundrum

The Mariners' first base position saw some improvement during the second half of the 2024 season, thanks to the platoon of trade acquisition Justin Turner and slugger Luke Raley. However, with Turner's free agent status, the team's front office must carefully consider their options for the position going forward. President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto has acknowledged the need to find a first baseman who "matches well" with Raley, indicating that the team is actively seeking a complementary player to maximize the potential of the position.Raley's breakout season, which saw him hit a career-high 22 home runs and drive in 58 RBIs, has provided a glimmer of hope for the Mariners' offense. Yet, his struggles against left-handed pitching highlight the need for a strategic pairing to ensure consistent production at first base. The team's decision-makers will need to weigh the pros and cons of retaining Turner or exploring alternative options that can elevate Raley's performance and solidify the position.

Shoring Up the Middle Infield

Beyond the first base conundrum, the Mariners' middle infield positions have also been a source of concern. Second base and shortstop have not consistently provided the offensive spark the team has sought, and the front office is likely to prioritize addressing these areas as well.The Mariners' front office has emphasized the importance of improving the infield, and fans can expect to see significant moves in this direction during the offseason. Whether it's through trades, free agent signings, or internal development, the team is committed to strengthening the core of their lineup and providing a more reliable foundation for their offensive production.

Optimizing the Corners

The Mariners' struggles at third base have also been a point of focus for the organization. While the team has seen flashes of potential from various players, the lack of consistent production at the hot corner has been a persistent issue. The front office will need to carefully evaluate their options and identify players who can provide the necessary offensive and defensive contributions to solidify the position.As the Mariners' front office delves into the offseason, the infield will undoubtedly be a primary area of attention. The team's decision-makers will need to balance the need for immediate impact with the long-term vision for the organization, ensuring that any moves made strengthen the team's core and position them for sustained success in the years to come.

Maximizing the Outfield Alignment

Amidst the focus on the infield, the Mariners have also made strides in strengthening their outfield. The signing of Victor Robles to a contract extension and the continued development of Julio Rodriguez have bolstered the team's defensive and offensive capabilities in the outfield. Dipoto's comments suggest that Raley may also see some time in the outfield, further diversifying the team's options and providing flexibility in their lineup construction.The Mariners' front office has recognized the need for a well-rounded and versatile roster, and the improvements in the outfield complement the ongoing efforts to address the infield. By optimizing the alignment of both the infield and outfield, the team aims to create a more balanced and dynamic offensive and defensive unit, capable of competing at the highest level.