Seattle Mariners “Considering a Tear Down”?
Usually, we use this bold text to set up an article for our beloved Seattle Mariners. Today, we use it as a reminder that today is election day, so go vote! “Decisions are made by those who show up”. Vote!
Now back to the Seattle Mariners. Reports began to surface early this morning that the franchise and it’s GM Jerry Dipoto may finally be willing to consider what was once thought of as improbable:
Yes, it appears the Seattle Mariners are considering a teardown. All players are being made available, and they are willing to wait for a few years to be competitive again. Lady’s and gentleman, start your engines!
Okay, well let’s hold on. While a lot of fans would be excited about this process, the Mariners would still have to deal with an angry portion of the fan base. Saying you are willing to consider something, and actually doing it, are two completely different ball games.
In reality, this leak is most likely a test balloon to gauge interest from other teams and your fan base as well. Passan even adds this tweet that shows the Mariners may not be willing to dive straight into the rebuilding pool:
So the Mariners are willing to give the rest of MLB a chance to make them rebuild. Will they meet their price? Maybe. Rumors have already started flying around involving one of the Mariners best trade chips, James Paxton.
Moving Paxton, who has 2-years of club control remaining, makes a lot of sense. If the Mariners do not intend to compete in 2019, trading Paxton now increases his value as opposed to moving him in July or waiting for next season. It also sheds about $9 million off the payroll in 2019.
Teams are sure to be interested in Paxton. Jon Heyman has already confirmed one such team:
Trading Paxton is a topic we have touched on recently on this site (full article by clicking here) and would send a serious message that Seattle is serious about their rebuild. However, until it happens, remember that the club hasn’t actually committed to anything yet. For the Mariners especially, actions will speak louder than words.
Now, go vote!