Mariners Eye World Series Amid Veteran Departures

SEATTLE, Washington — The Seattle Mariners are making a strong push for the World Series title this year, possibly facing their best chance in the near future. With a roster featuring aging veterans and players with expiring contracts, their window for a championship is narrower beyond this season.

Recently acquired players Josh Naylor and Eugenio Suárez have bolstered the team. However, both are on expiring contracts, creating uncertainty about their future with the Mariners. While there is potential for Naylor to return in free agency, Suárez’s departure seems more likely.

The Detroit Tigers have emerged as a potential landing spot for Suárez in free agency. Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller suggested the fit, noting Suárez’s impressive track record. “Lou Gehrig. Harmon Killebrew. Eugenio Suárez. Those are the only players in MLB history with multiple seasons of exactly 49 home runs,” Miller wrote.

Despite a dip in performance since the trade deadline, Suárez remains a dangerous batter. Since 2018, he ranks among the top five players in home runs, highlighting his slugging ability. The Tigers might find Suárez appealing as they aim to enhance their lineup with a solid right-handed hitter at third base.

Miller speculated that a financial commitment for Suárez over the next two years could be manageable for the Tigers, especially compared to the likely cost of other top talents like Alex Bregman. With the future of Tarik Skubal uncertain, the Tigers need to capitalize on their ace’s remaining seasons by surrounding him with strong players.

Signing Suárez could provide the immediate boost they need, allowing them to remain competitive while keeping the door open for future negotiations with Skubal.