Mariners Pursue Kazuma Okamoto in Competitive Free-Agent Market

This blog post digs into the Seattle Mariners’ reported interest in Japanese star Kazuma Okamoto as his MLB posting window nears its close. With several teams circling and Seattle previously focused on other infield upgrades, Okamoto could signal a shift in the team’s roster-building approach—one that might pay off both on the field and financially.

Mariners Enter the Kazuma Okamoto Sweepstakes

As Kazuma Okamoto’s MLB posting window ticks down, the Seattle Mariners have popped up as a surprise contender among a growing list of interested clubs. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand says Seattle has joined the Cubs, Blue Jays, Red Sox, Angels, Pirates, and Padres in keeping tabs on the situation.

The posting deadline is Sunday at 4 p.m. CT. Okamoto’s landing spot is still a mystery, but his availability has added a jolt of intrigue to what’s otherwise been a pretty methodical Mariners offseason.

For Seattle, this isn’t just about adding talent. It’s also about flexibility and value as the front office tries to balance immediate contention with longer-term planning.

A Shift From Seattle’s Original Plan

Up to now, the Mariners have mostly targeted second-base upgrades while looking at internal options for third base. Top prospect Colt Emerson, along with Cole Young and Ben Williamson, have all been floated as possible in-house solutions.

Bringing in Okamoto would mark a real pivot away from that youth-first mindset.

How Okamoto Fits the Mariners’ Roster

Okamoto’s reputation is as a corner infielder, but his versatility is a big selling point for MLB teams. With the Yomiuri Giants, he piled up experience at third and first base, and even made some appearances in the outfield.

That kind of defensive flexibility could let Seattle get creative with its roster construction.

Positional Versatility Adds Value

Okamoto has played in:

This gives the Mariners the option to use him as an occasional left fielder or first baseman, especially when Josh Naylor or Randy Arozarena need a breather or a DH day. Unlike a one-position bat, Okamoto could move around depending on matchups and injuries, taking some pressure off Seattle’s lineup.

Comparing Okamoto to Other Targets

Seattle has also been linked to names like former Mariner Eugenio Suárez and multi-positional Brendan Donovan. Both have value, but neither will come cheap.

Donovan would probably play a lot of second base if acquired, while Suárez would be a reunion with some known drawbacks.

Okamoto, on the other hand, could offer a lower overall price tag while bringing similar or even better offensive upside.

Contract Considerations and Market Value

MLB Trade Rumors slotted Okamoto 19th among offseason free agents and guessed he’d get a four-year, $64 million deal. But recent contracts for Japanese stars Tatsuya Imai and Munetaka Murakami hint the market might come in lower than early predictions.

A shorter-term, “bet on yourself” deal with opt-outs could appeal to both sides. For Seattle, that setup would keep payroll flexible and let them avoid overpaying for pricier options like Brendan Donovan or Ketel Marte, while still boosting the lineup.

Why Seattle Makes Sense for Okamoto

From Okamoto’s point of view, the Mariners check a lot of important boxes. The club’s 2026 outlook is strong, thanks to elite pitching and a competitive core.

Seattle also has a real track record of welcoming and supporting Japanese players, which matters a lot in posting decisions.

There’s a clear path to playing time and a shot to maximize future earnings. The Mariners suddenly look like more than just a dark horse here.

A Move That Could Define the Offseason

Nothing’s imminent yet, but Seattle’s reported interest in Kazuma Okamoto is intriguing. The Mariners seem willing to get creative as they look for ways to close the gap in the American League.

If the price works out, Okamoto’s mix of power, versatility, and championship experience could make him one of the most impactful additions this winter. It’s the kind of move that might just shift the conversation around the team.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Mariners Involved In Kazuma Okamoto’s Market