Seattle Mariners Rumors: Phillies Interested in Jean Segura

Now that James Paxton is no longer “property” of the Seattle Mariners, sights have turned to Jean Segura and Mike Leake. After the leaked Wil Myers for Segura and Leake proposal, more teams have confirmed interest in Segura.

One such team that has interest in the Mariners shortstop is the Philadelphia Phillies. The Phillies have long since been rumored to be interested, or possible favorites, to land free agent prize Manny Machado. Their main competitors appear to be the New York Yankees, who also have an interest in Segura.

It appears Segura has either become a bargaining chip against Machado or a legitimate alternative to the superstar at a reasonable price. The Phillies need a shortstop and have a deep enough farm system to work out a deal with the Mariners.

One of the major roadblocks to such a deal is Segura’s full no-trade clause. The Mariners need permission from Segura before they can trade him anywhere. Segura’s long friendship with Robinson Cano may prevent the team from finding a spot to send Segura.

However, the team’s relationship with Segura, particularly that of Scott Servais, appears to have deteriorated to the point that it may be best for both parties to go their own direction. One important note in the sea of rumors is that the Mariners have not yet approached Segura waiving his no-trade clause, indicating that talks may not be far along.

Segura has 4 years left on his current deal and is set to earn $14.25 million in each of those seasons. The contract represents a good value for the 28-year-old who is coming off his 3rd straight successful season.

The Mariners may be better served waiting for Manny Machado to sign, leaving Segura as the best SS option on the market. Whether Mariners GM Jerry Dipoto wants to trade Segura for an MLB driven package like his Mike Zunino trade, or a prospect driven package like his Paxton trade will effect the return.

The Phillies have MLB seasoned youngsters like Maikel Franco, JP Crawford, and Nick Williams. They also have a nice farm system led by Sixto Sanchez. A deal around the idea of JP Crawford and Adam Haseley makes some sense for both sides, but any hypthetical offer is based squarely in speculation.

We will continue to follow the story as it progresses.