2 Mariners position battles to watch during 2025 spring training

With spring training in its early stages, the Seattle Mariners' front office has made it clear: they’re running it back with the core roster from 2024. While continuity can be a strength, there are still a few key position battles that warrant attention. A handful of players will be fighting to secure everyday roles, and the competition could shape the Mariners' success in 2025.

At this juncture, Dylan Moore appears to be the frontrunner for the Opening Day second base job. The 32-year-old veteran has spent his entire major league career with Seattle, proving to be a valuable utility player and defensive asset. His brief stretch filling in for JP Crawford last season was particularly impressive. Over 24 games, Moore slashed .250 with 11 extra-base hits and a stellar 144 wRC+.

However looking over the full season, his production doesn’t resonate the same. In 98 games, Moore hit just .189 with a 96 wRC+, raising questions about his viability as a long-term starter. If he struggles out of the gate, the Mariners will explore alternative options quickly.

With Donovan Solano apparently locked in a platoon at first base, Ryan Bliss is the most likely candidate to push Moore for playing time. Acquired in 2023 in the Paul Sewald trade, Bliss has been waiting for his opportunity. In a short major league stint last season, he posted a 102 OPS+ with a .222 average, two home runs, nine RBI, and five stolen bases. He’s shown flashes of readiness but still needs more at-bats to prove he belongs in the everyday lineup.

A dark horse in the mix is Leo Rivas, who brings a solid defensive skill set and a knack for clutch hitting. But he lacks the power and base-running aggression of Moore and Bliss, making him an unlikely candidate for regular playing time.

Looking toward the future, Cole Young remains a potential long-term solution at second base. His performance in spring training could influence how soon he arrives in Seattle. While he’s expected to start 2025 in Triple-A, if Moore and Bliss struggle early, Young could force his way into the lineup by midseason.

Is Mariners right field job up for grabs more than fans might think?

This next theory might be a stretch, but let’s entertain it for the sake of discussion. The addition of Victor Robles last season was nothing short of a revelation. After joining Seattle on June 4, he injected much-needed energy into the team, excelling both offensively and defensively. Over 77 games, Robles delivered a .328 batting average with four home runs, 26 RBI, and 30 stolen bases, finishing with an impressive .845 OPS and a 155 OPS+

The biggest question is whether this level of production is sustainable. A regression is expected, but how much will dictate his long-term viability. If Robles struggles, Mitch Haniger could emerge as a legitimate replacement. Haniger, who enters 2025 with plenty to prove, has the bat to be an asset but has seen his defensive skills diminish significantly.

The other outfield options present question marks. Dominic Canzone has struggled to maintain consistency, and Luke Raley is primarily locked in at first base. That leaves a small but intriguing window for a surprise candidate — Lazaro Montez.

Montez has blitzed his way through the Mariners’ system since signing as a 17-year-old in 2022. His 2024 campaign was nothing short of impressive: 21 home runs, 105 RBI, a .288 batting average, and an .881 OPS. His left-handed power profile bears a striking resemblance to that of another former Mariners prospect who made waves after finishing in Single-A: Julio Rodríguez.

Unlike Rodríguez, Montez isn’t a base-stealing threat, nor are they a match when it comes to elite athleticism. However, his raw power and mature plate approach make him a compelling candidate for an accelerated path to the majors. If he shines in spring training, the Mariners could be faced with a tough decision. Stick to the original plan or fast-track one of their most exciting young talents to the big leagues.

The second base battle will be one of the most pivotal competitions of the Mariners' spring and into the regular season. Moore enters as the favorite, but Bliss and Young are looming as potential challengers. Meanwhile, right field carries intrigue but isn't as pressing of a concern. Robles has earned a long leash, but they could be a Montez breakout away from rethinking their approach. These position battles will be worth monitoring as the season unfolds, shaping both the Opening Day lineup and the club’s long-term outlook.