How Does Taylor Trammell Fit with the Seattle Mariners Going Forward?

After the excitement of a postseason chase and the hullabaloo of the first few weeks of the MLB offseason, some Seattle Mariners players have been left behind in the minds of Mariners fans. One such player is Taylor Trammell, a power-hitting outfielder who never quite found his footing during limited opportunities early in the 2021 season.

Trammell, a former top prospect in the Cincinnati Reds and San Diego Padres organizations, highlighted a package of players sent from the Padres to the Mariners at the 2020 trade deadline (although Ty France ended up being the true headliner). He debuted last season at age 23, but struggled to the tune of a .160/.256/.359 slash line in two brief stints with the big league club before being permanently sent down on July 11th.

While his offensive performance wasn’t spectacular through 178 PA’s in 2021, Taylor Trammell’s power, fielding, athleticism, and youth still flash promise.

Jun 23, 2021; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners centerfielder Taylor Trammell (20) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run off of Colorado Rockies starting pitcher German Marquez (48) during the sixth inning of a game at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-USA TODAY Sports /

Trammell was one of Seattle’s stars in Spring Training (which ultimately led to his relatively surprising placement in the Opening Day starting lineup), and he blasted 8 home runs in his short time with the club. The Mariners also utilized him in center field for the majority of his games, which can add significant pressure to a rookie (just ask Jarred Kelenic), but he displayed decent range, a solid throwing arm, and didn’t commit any errors.

With Kelenic likely shifting to left field next season, and Mitch Haniger entrenched in right field, center field appears up for grabs heading into 2022. Former American League Rookie of the Year Kyle Lewis appeared to be a lock in center for the foreseeable future after his outstanding 2020 season, but repetitive knee injuries have muddied his outlook to the point of likely being limited to a corner outfield/DH role (if he’s even able to play at all).

Next. What Kind of Player Could Abraham Toro Become?. dark

If center field isn’t filled through free agency or trade when the MLB offseason resumes, Taylor Trammell could turn some heads with a successful Spring Training and improved bat-to-ball skills. Trammell’s primary competition as of now comes from Jake Fraley, but if the Mariners value defensive ability, power, and overall potential, Trammell should be given the nod.

Home/Mariners News