Logan Gilbert makes Mariners fans optimistic with latest contract remarks

The Seattle Mariners have a golden opportunity in front of them: locking up ace Logan Gilbert with a long-term extension.

While fans have been told nothing more than initial discussions have happened, it is still good news that the Mariners are in consistent conversation with the Cy Young Award candidate about a potential extension. If the Mariners aren’t going to spend big in free agency—a frustratingly consistent theme—then they must prioritize extending their young talent. Gilbert, who is eligible for free agency after the 2027 season, should be at the top of that list.

In an interview with Brock and Salk of Seattle Sports 710 AM at spring training, Gilbert provided a glimmer of hope that an extension will indeed happen.

“I love being here, and I’m not just saying that. I’m sure everybody on a headset would say that, but they’ve been good to me," the All-Star righty said.

When asked specifically about the possibility of signing an extension, he responded: “I’m definitely open to it. It has to be the right situation for sure, but I’m definitely open to it. We’ve had, I mean, loose talks. Haven’t gotten there, but it’s been optimistic I would say."

Logan Gilbert provides optimism about contraction extension with Seattle Mariners

Since making his debut in 2021, Gilbert has been everything you could ask for in a frontline starter. He’s durable, consistent, and level-headed—a true workhorse who takes the ball every fifth day and gives the Mariners a chance to win. His ability to adjust and improve each season is exactly what you want in a long-term cornerstone of the rotation. If there’s such a thing as the perfect Mariners pitcher, Gilbert is it.

And yet, here we are again, wondering if Mariners' ownership will step up and pay their own guys.

For years, this team has refused to spend aggressively in free agency, ranking near the bottom of the league in total spending. They instead rely on trades and internal development while selling fans on the promise of the future. If that’s the strategy, fine—but then you must take care of the players who actually deliver. Gilbert has proven himself, and the Mariners can’t afford to let him slip away.

Extending Gilbert now would also be a smart business move for general manager Jerry Dipoto and owner John Stanton. The longer Seattle waits, the more expensive these deals tend to get. Just look at what’s happening around the league—teams are locking up young pitching early to avoid paying a premium later. The Mariners have already let too many free-agent opportunities pass them by; they can’t afford to make the same mistake with their own talent.

If the Mariners truly believe they can build a sustainable contender without diving into free agency, then locking up Gilbert should be a no-brainer. He’s already one of the most reliable arms in the rotation, and at just 27 years old, his best years are still ahead of him. It’s time for ownership to make a statement and commit to keeping a key piece of the future in Seattle.