Gunnar Henderson isn't Mariners' lone option in potential offseason trade with Orioles

The Orioles and Mariners actually have quite a bit in common. Both teams were seen as up-and-coming contenders with young cores of homegrown talent, and both teams have failed to live up to expectations. They've both made the playoffs just twice this decade and with their playoff chances sitting under 10%, 2026 seems like another missed opportunity for Seattle and Baltimore.

Where the teams diverge is how they seem to be preparing for the near future. The Mariners seem more optimistic about what's to come, calling up their top prospects and looking at potential additions this winter, but the Orioles could be looking to offload some talent including their most prized possession, Gunnar Henderson. If Baltimore's infield logjam forces them to shop some of their pieces in the offseason, Seattle has more than a few options to choose from.

The Orioles could hold the key to upgrading Seattle's infield depth

The Mariners have no shortage of infielders themselves, especially with the recent call-up of Michael Arroyo, but none of them have managed to live up to the hype this year. Colt Emerson's rookie campaign showed that he had much to learn, Brendan Donovan has dealt with poor injury luck that just won't seem to improve, and Josh Naylor has had a disappointing start to his five-year contract with the team, posting a 99 OPS+ over 577 plate appearances.

Financially, the team has long-term commitments to Emerson and Naylor, but getting more depth and utility couldn't hurt, especially if it means improving Seattle's anemic lineup. Jordan Westburg is a good utility option who's able to play at second or third base. His season came to an end after needing Tommy John surgery, but he could be an affordable option with some upside once he returns.

Coby Mayo is another player whose second-half surge has put him back on the map after a disappointing start to his big league career. His second half OPS of .889 is second among third basemen with more than 140 plate appearances behind only Alex Bregman (.958). He won't come cheap, given his extensive club control, and acquiring him may force Seattle to hand over one of their prized starting pitchers. Though it would go against the front office's modus operandi, the results of this season should give the organization motivation to change things up.

If they want to return to playoff contention, this offseason will be a busy one for Seattle. Baltimore isn't the only place with alluring assets to pursue but it does have a lot of what the Mariners are looking for. Given the strength of their farm system, they can be one of the most aggressive buyers around as long as they're willing to give up a little bit of their future to improve their present.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow