Mariners Infield Options to Watch at MLB Winter Meetings

The Seattle Mariners head into the MLB Winter Meetings with one clear goal: upgrade the infield and deepen the lineup. They’ve already solved first base, but third base is still a question mark.

The front office is locked in on free agent Jorge Polanco as their top target. They’re also watching Paul DeJong, Brandon Lowe, and a handful of internal prospects who could shake up the infield’s future.

Mariners’ Infield Overhaul Takes Center Stage

Seattle’s offseason plan is simple: add bats that can move around the diamond without giving up defense. After last season’s up-and-down offense, the Mariners want to mix in proven veterans with their wave of prospects.

That creates depth and competition. Now, the spotlight is on the middle infield, where the club hopes to land a steady presence to stabilize the lineup and fit with their young core.

Jorge Polanco: The Mariners’ Top Target

Jorge Polanco sits at the top of Seattle’s wish list, and it’s easy to see why. The 32-year-old switch-hitter offers rare versatility, handling second base, first base, and designated hitter.

He brings the kind of balanced offense this lineup has missed. Polanco is getting attention from contenders like the Red Sox, Yankees, and Pirates, and he’s after a multi-year contract.

There’s mutual interest between Polanco and Seattle, but talks haven’t really taken off yet. The market is competitive, and the length of his desired deal is a sticking point.

First Base Locked Down with Josh Naylor

Before focusing on the middle infield, Seattle locked up first base by bringing in a long-term answer. That changes the infield depth chart and reshapes the run-producing core of the lineup.

This move also affects how the Mariners might use any new players who can switch between first base and DH.

Josh Naylor’s Five-Year Deal Changes the Equation

The Mariners signed Josh Naylor to a five-year, $92.5 million contract, making him the everyday first baseman. Naylor brings lefty power and a gritty edge, giving Seattle a real middle-of-the-order bat to build around.

With first base set, Polanco would likely play mostly at second base and DH, maybe filling in at first only when needed.

Third Base: Veteran Stability vs. Youth Movement

First base is settled, but third base is still up in the air. The Mariners are weighing a reunion with a proven veteran against letting their prospects fight for a shot.

It’s a balancing act: staying competitive now without blocking their young talent.

Eugenio Suárez and the Prospects Behind Him

Seattle’s open to bringing back Eugenio Suárez, who could split time at third base, first base, and DH. Suárez brings power and leadership, and a flexible role could help manage his streaky bat and defense.

Behind him, two prospects stand out:

Both could break through soon, letting Seattle transition from veteran to prospect at third base without too much risk.

Internal Options at Second Base and the Outfield Pivot

Second base is the most unsettled spot, and the Mariners are figuring out how much they can trust their youth versus bringing in a proven starter.

Meanwhile, some internal players are changing positions to fit the team’s long-term plans.

Cole Young Leads the Second-Base Pack

Cole Young, just 22, tops the list of in-house second base options. His advanced approach and solid defense give him a real shot at winning the job soon.

Other depth options include:

Michael Arroyo is shifting from second base to left field. This move is meant to open up playing time and make the most of his bat, with a realistic shot at a 2026 debut.

Plan B Targets: DeJong, Lowe, and a Long Shot in Marte

Polanco’s at the top of the board, but the Mariners’ front office is keeping their options open. They can’t afford to leave the Winter Meetings empty-handed at infield.

If Polanco’s market gets too hot, other names like DeJong and Lowe will come into focus. There’s always a wild-card or two, but Seattle’s not putting all their eggs in one basket.

Paul DeJong, Brandon Lowe, and Starling Marte’s Slim Odds

Paul DeJong, at 28, is another name floating around Seattle’s radar. He’s a versatile, contact-oriented infielder with solid offensive numbers.

DeJong looks like the type who could become an everyday player. He’d probably slot into a leadoff role and help stabilize the top of the lineup, which honestly, they could use.

Brandon Lowe brings a different vibe. He’s a left-handed power bat who can do some real damage, though there are some defensive question marks that follow him.

Lowe feels more like a fallback option if Polanco and DeJong head elsewhere. It’s not the most exciting scenario, but it’s something.

Starling Marte gets mentioned with Seattle now and then. Still, his age and contract probably make a deal a long shot at best.

The Mariners seem focused on infielders who fit their current window and payroll. Marte just doesn’t really align with that plan.

 
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