Mariners’ Options for Kyle Seager in 2022 Offseason

Mariners Kyle Seager — Aug 19, 2021; Arlington, Texas, USA; Seattle Mariners third baseman Kyle Seager (15) in action during the game between the Texas Rangers and the Seattle Mariners at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

The cap hit for Kyle Seager wouldn’t be a problem for the Mariners next year.

With plenty of luxury tax space available for next season (the luxury tax threshold is $210 million, and the Mariners are only spending $81.7 million on team payroll this season), money shouldn’t be an issue for the Mariners. So, at first glance, it seems obvious – if Seager is worth his $18.5 million salary this year, then he’ll easily be worth $15 million next season.

There aren’t a lot of salaries that are going to be on the books for the Mariners going forward, so that part of it won’t be an issue. Especially when you pair it with the clubhouse value that he brings to the team.

Seager is clearly in a stage in his career where he is able to significantly contribute, as he’s bashed 29 home runs this year (tied for the major league lead among third-basemen) and is third among all major league third-basemen with 82 RBIs. His .217 batting average obviously isn’t great, but the home runs and RBIs balance out his value enough to earn him a solid fWAR.

Without another third-baseman rapidly climbing up the ranks in the Mariners’ system, Seager would be valued by the team next year. However, is picking up the one-year option the best step for the club to take with Seager next year?

The cap hit for Kyle Seager wouldn’t be a problem for the Mariners next year.

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