Mariners Insights from MLB GM Meetings: Coaching Changes and Plans

The Seattle Mariners are knee-deep in another offseason filled with change. They’re tweaking their coaching staff and weighing roster moves, as usual.

Two key coaches, Tony Arnerich and Kristopher Negron, have left for bench coach gigs with other MLB teams. The Mariners’ front office says these moves show off their knack for developing coaching talent, not just players.

They’re also making choices about the roster—juggling prospects and veterans, and figuring out their pitching plans for 2025. It’s a lot to balance, but that’s baseball.

Coaching Carousel Continues in Seattle

Tony Arnerich was the bullpen coach, but now he’s off to be the bench coach for the Cleveland Guardians. Kristopher Negron, who handled first base and outfield duties, is joining the Pittsburgh Pirates in a similar role.

The Mariners let both coaches interview elsewhere, so there were no hard feelings. General Manager Justin Hollander says it’s proof their system can grow coaches who move up in the league.

Despite the changes, the Mariners are hanging on to some key staff. Pitching coach Pete Woodworth and director of pitching Trent Blank are staying put, which should help keep things steady. Hollander says hitting coaches Kevin Seitzer and Bobby Magallanes will be back, too.

Impact on Player Development

The Mariners think new coaching voices will help players sharpen their skills. They like to mix internal promotions with bringing in new folks, aiming for growth across the board.

Roster Adjustments and Catcher Depth

Losing veteran catcher Mitch Garver in free agency leaves a hole. Right now, prospect Harry Ford is set to back up starter Cal Raleigh.

Hollander says Ford’s making strides and looks ready for the big leagues. The team seems genuinely excited about his progress, though there’s always a bit of wait-and-see with prospects.

Trade Possibilities for Ford

The Mariners aren’t shopping Ford, but they’ll listen if teams call. He’s developed into a real asset—someone they could keep or use in a trade to fill another need.

Right Field Confidence Despite Criticism

Plenty of fans complained about right field last year. The Mariners, though, still believe in Dom Canzone, Victor Robles, and Luke Raley.

Hollander pushed back on criticism, blaming injuries and small sample sizes in the postseason for the struggles. With a healthy offseason and more chances, the team expects this group to bounce back in 2025.

Pitching Plans for Hancock and Cijntje

The Mariners are shaping their pitching plans, too. Emerson Hancock finished 2024 in relief, but he’ll train as a starter this offseason. They see him fitting into the rotation long-term.

Switch-Pitcher Development

Then there’s Jurrangelo Cijntje, who throws with both arms. The Mariners will let him keep pitching ambidextrously for now, though they admit he might eventually focus on right-handed pitching for the best results.

Key Takeaways

• Mariners lost two coaches to bench roles with other MLB teams, highlighting their development pipeline.
• Harry Ford steps into the backup catcher role with potential trade interest.
• Front office stays confident in right-field trio despite fan skepticism.
• Pitching plans include Hancock returning to a starting role and continued ambidextrous development for Cijntje.

The Mariners are banking on a mix of young talent and a core group of staff they’ve chosen to keep. They’re hoping these offseason moves pay off when the regular season rolls around.

There’s a sense of steady confidence from the front office. Maybe some folks outside the clubhouse still have doubts, but inside, belief in this group seems real as they gear up for 2025.

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