Seattle Mariners Quiet at Winter Meetings… For Now

ANAHEIM, CA - SEPTEMBER 30: Reliever Edwin Diaz
ANAHEIM, CA - SEPTEMBER 30: Reliever Edwin Diaz /
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The Seattle Mariners entered the Winter Meetings expecting to be one of the busiest teams there. So far, that has not been the case. A slow developing free agent class is effecting the trade market, creating a very slow start to the festivities.

Thus far, the meetings have produced just 2 minor league signings, and a very somber attitude towards the Mariners. The 2 signings, for Matt Hauge and John Andreoli, provide some veteran AAA depth for the team.

Of the 2, Andreoli is the most intriguing, slashing a decent .244/.348/.435 with 14 home runs and 26 stolen bases. Andreoli has excellent plate discipline, posting a career 11.2 BB% in the minors. Jason Churchill of Prospect Insider and Hero Sports had this to say:

In other news, reports have surfaced that relievers Bryan Shaw and Tommy Hunter have signed deals, though the signing team remains unknown. The latter is rumored to be headed to the Astros or Dodger. With Jerry Dipoto’s stated desire to add a bullpen arm, and his comments that something was close, Bryan Shaw could very well end up in Seattle.

The Tampa Bay Rays have reportedly agreed to terms with top international prospect Jelfry Marte. The deal is reportedly worth $800,000, meaning Tampa will need to add international bonus money to complete the deal. The Mariners have reportedly been shopping their cash pool after being spurned by Shohei Ohtani.

The Pirates are actively engaged in trade talks to move young ace Gerrit Cole this off-season. The Mariners seem like an unlikely suitor, especially considering the team who are also interested. A source did confirm that the Mariners briefly discussed Cole with Pittsburgh, but nothing progressed.

Finally, Seattle could be active in Thursdays Rule 5 draft. Dipoto hinted at such during his meeting with the Seattle press. The usually coy Dipoto admitted that with the current 40 man at 37 players, they would consider taking ” the right player” at slot 14.

Next: Tampa Bay, Seattle, Trading Again?

In conclusion, the Winter Meetings have been a real bummer for Seattle fans looking to shake off a truly awful sports weekend. The Mariners promise to be busy throughout the off-season. But with the fan base dying for news, anything would be greatly appreciated.