A rare optimistic Mariners take on Jerry Dipoto's underwhelming offseason

The Seattle Mariners enter this season with plenty of questions, with several players possibly holding the key to their success: Julio Rodríguez, J.P. Crawford, Randy Arozarena, and Mitch Garver. Each of them has the potential to make a significant impact, and their performances could be the difference between another tight playoff race and a deep postseason run.

When we talk about Rodríguez and his chances of making a real push toward MVP contention in 2025, let’s be honest — this shouldn't be much of a debate. Some might call last season a “down year” for him, but was it really? Or was it just a down year for the entire Mariners' offense? Because when you step back and look at the numbers, Julio was still the same dynamic player we’ve come to expect. His production remained in line with his previous seasons, proving that he’s still one of the league’s most dangerous hitters.

His spray chart? No drastic changes — he's still driving the ball to all fields like he always does. Hard-hit percentage? Rock solid, staying between 48%-52% every year. Strikeout rate? Almost identical at 25.4% in 2024, compared to 25.9% in 2022 and 24.5% in 2023. His walk rate remains steady. Only his barrel percentage dipped from 11.9% to 10.2%, a slight but notable shift.

Now, sure, consistency will always be a factor. You’d love to see him avoid those extended cold stretches, but let’s not overthink this. Julio is going to be Julio. And that’s a great thing for the Mariners, especially with his new partnership with Edgar Martinez. That same goes for catcher Cal Raleigh, you can live with the strikeouts because his overall impact outweighs them. The same logic applies to Julio.

So when people talk about Julio needing a “bounce-back” year, we don’t really see it that way. He doesn’t need to reinvent himself or unlock some hidden part of his game because there aren’t many glaring weaknesses that need fixing. The talent, the tools, the work ethic, it’s all there. The real question isn’t about Julio; it’s about the guys around him.

If the Mariners' lineup had been even competent last season, Julio’s numbers would have looked much better. That’s the missing piece for 2025. If the supporting cast (Arozarena, Polanco, Robles) plays to its potential, he’ll see better pitches to hit. And when J-Rod gets pitches he can drive? That’s when things get dangerous. If the Mariners get it right and give him the support he needs, he’ll be right in the MVP race.

Can Mariners veterans JP Crawford, Mitch Garver overcome adversity in 2025?

Since joining the Mariners in 2019, JP Crawford has been a steady presence at shortstop. But this season, he has a chance to elevate his game. Crawford has heard the questions about whether he’s still the answer at the position, and that’s exactly the type of challenge that brings out the best in him.

After setting career highs in many offensive categories including home runs, RBI, and OPS in 2023, Crawford came crashing back down to earth in 2024 with an abysmal performance impossible to ignore. However, as a player known for his steady growth and relentless work ethic, Crawford isn’t one to simply write off a down season. With a chip on his shoulder and competition pushing him to reclaim his spot at the top of the order, we should expect a determined shortstop to bounce back and return to form this season.

Mitch Garver gave Mariners fans plenty to criticize in his first season, but if he stays healthy and consistent, he can be a real asset. Raleigh is a workhorse behind the plate, but last year proved the risk of overworking him. If Garver can handle catching duties semi-regularly, it keeps Raleigh fresh, improves his late-season production, and allows for more DH opportunities. Garver knows he needs to be better — he’s said as much. He’s motivated, and when a player has something to prove, surprises can follow.

The front office may not have spent big in the offseason, but internal growth can be just as valuable. Julio, J.P., and even Garver have the talent, the motivation, and the competitive fire to take this team to the next level. If they do, Mariners fans will have plenty to cheer about deep into October, and they can forget about all the payroll discussion.