One Mariners Trade Proposal With Each N.L. East Team

Philadelphia Phillies – RHP Kyle Gibson

Looking at the Mariners rotation, it needs some work. The 5th spot looks like it comes down to a battle between Justin Dunn, Justus Sheffield, and Matt Brash. They have to go add someone else, and Kyle Gibson of the Phillies could be that guy. He was acquired from the Rangers last year at the deadline, and he is now going into the final year of his deal.

Kyle Gibson is a quality mid-rotation arm, probably most comparable to Chris Flexen, but with more experience and a better track record. He has had a 2.6 WAR or better the last four seasons except for the shortened 2020 season. He has also had over 160 innings in those three normal years, and has been a very steady pitcher.

The Mariners would have a tough time trading for Gibson, and that is because the Phillies are trying to win now as well. This could be a possible hurdle in a trade, but I believe that there is a way or two to make it work. Clearly, the Mariners would have to give up some current major league pieces for the steady veteran.

In this trade scenario, the M’s would be getting one year of Gibson for two years of a proven reliever in Drew Steckenrider, and several years of Jake Fraley. Steckenrider could immediately be one of the Phillies’ best relievers, possibly their closer. They have had bad bullpens the last several years, so having someone to shore things up at the back end could be important.

They also need outfield help, and badly. That is why Fraley would work for them. Their outfielders on their 40-man roster (besides Bryce Harper) are Mickey Moniak, Adam Hasseley, Simon Muzziotti, Matt Vierling, and Jhailyn Ortiz. That group needs an upgrade, and Fraley could be it.

The final NL East trade target comes from the nation’s capital: