The Seattle Mariners finally tasted postseason baseball for the first time since 2001.
After 21 years, one of the most loyal fan bases in baseball could enjoy playoff games in October.
They actually gave the Houston Astros a few scares in their American League Division Series, but ended up being swept.
Now that they know what it feels like, they want more.
To really compete with the Astros, the Mariners need several impact pieces on their roster, particularly on offense.
Jarred Kelenic hasn’t broken out yet, and other promising outfielders such as Kyle Lewis and Taylor Trammell are also yet to break through.
Jesse Winker‘s work ethic was also questioned.
Mitch Haniger, an important source of power, is testing free agency.
Rodriguez Needs Help, And The Mariners Are Already Targeting An Elite Outfielder
Julio Rodriguez can’t do it all by himself, so the M’s have to bring in some bats and address the outfield.
They are willing to pay top price to get some help, though.
“Sources: #Mariners have expressed formal interest in free agent outfielder Brandon Nimmo, a Wyoming native. Mariners are looking for a left-handed bat and improved on-base percentage. Nimmo would bring both,” MLB insider Jon Morosi tweeted.
Sources: #Mariners have expressed formal interest in free agent outfielder Brandon Nimmo, a Wyoming native. Mariners are looking for a left-handed bat and improved on-base percentage. Nimmo would bring both. @MLBNetwork @SeattleSports
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 10, 2022
Formal interest probably implies that Seattle has already had talks about Nimmo with his agents and may be preparing an offer.
Seattle wants Nimmo, but so do the New York Mets (his original team) and a myriad of other squads.
He is the perfect leadoff hitter, as his .274/.367/.433 line suggests: he is very good at taking walks, has contact, power, and even some speed.
His 134 wRC+ indicates he is a well-above average hitter, and his 5.4 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) output speaks loudly about his overall contributions.
Teams should prepare to pay if they want Nimmo.
NEXT: Mariners Share How Clutch Scott Servais Has Been