Latest Rays trade rumors leave Mariners in a tough spot with infield upgrades

The remaining options for available infield free agents and trade targets are wearing thin, in case you haven't been following the Seattle Mariners at all this offseason. Unless the M's are content with taking the field on Opening Day with their roster as is, they'll have to pick up the pace.

Once upon a time, the Tampa Bay Rays looked to be a prime trade partner for Seattle, but the times have changed rather quickly.

According to more recent reports, Tampa Bay is unlikely to move Yandy Díaz or Brandon Lowe this offseason. While the initial thesis was that both players would be a little too expensive for this historically frugal club, other teams that have inquired about the availability of these infielders have gotten the sense that they're off limits. The Rays seem hesitant to offload any further offense before the start of the season since they've already sent away some of their best hitters in Randy Arozarena and Isaac Paredes.

Things may change as we approach the 2025 trade deadline, as much of the Rays' ability to compete will depend on how their top prospects shake out, namely Junior Caminero and potentially even Carson Williams. However, it may be too late by then to save the Mariners' playoff hopes.

Every other team in the AL West division has already made significant roster improvements, either by way of signing free agents or making major trades. Even teams who are seemingly miles away from being serious contenders like the Athletics and Angels have bolstered their rotations with Luis Severino and Yusei Kikuchi.

So what's left for Seattle to do regarding their infield? Not much, unfortunately. There have been discussions about a certain corner infielder waiving his no-trade clause for more teams than originally thought, but even if he were to end up in Seattle, his exorbitant salary may cause more harm than good. The Padres have another infield option who recently agreed to a $14 million salary for 2025, but as with any hot commodity, the competition for his services are stiff. Unless the Mariners are comfortable parting with some of their top starting pitching talent or premier prospects in a trade, they'll likely get out bid just as they were for Gavin Lux.

For now, the outlook seems grim, especially with two more options coming off the board. Fans will have to settle with the usual small moves that have become so common with this front office.