3 most surprising first impressions at Mariners spring training 2025

3B Nick Dunn

Dunn was a fifth-round draft pick by the Cardinals in 2018 and spent the past six minor league seasons in their system, most recently posting a 120 wRC+ across 361 plate appearances with Triple-A Memphis. As a 28-year old minor leaguer with no clear path to the majors, he was released by St. Louis and was quickly picked up by the Mariners.

It was a surprising move, as he was well respected by Cardinals fans and had good pedigree as a prospect. His contact numbers in 2024 were excellent and, since joining the Mariners, he has put up five hits in just 10 spring training at-bats. If he keeps it up, he would be an outstanding backup option (or dark horse starter) at the hot corner, where Jorge Polanco is the top dog.