Mariners catch a break with yet another bad injury update for AL West rival Astros

The Seattle Mariners might have just caught yet another break in their pursuit to dethrone the Houston Astros in their pursuit of the AL West title.

As the Astros continue to claw their way back to the top of the American League after a sluggish start to 2025, injuries are starting to pile up for the defending division champs. First, shortstop Jeremy Peña landed on the injured list with a fractured rib, an injury that could sideline him well into July, though a timetable hasn't been set. Peña had been one of Houston’s most consistent players on both sides of the ball, and losing his defense and bat at the top of the order leaves a significant hole in a hot Astros team.

The Mariners need to take advantage of the Astros missing 2 core stars

Now comes another blow: Yordan Alvarez, Houston’s most feared slugger, has had his rehab shut down due to renewed soreness in his injured right hand. The Astros had been hoping for a return in early July, but with this setback his timeline is now uncertain. Without Alvarez for the foreseeable future, Houston’s lineup is far less intimidating, and their offensive ceiling takes a noticeable dip.

For the Mariners, this is an opportunity they can’t afford to let slip. The division is there for the taking, and with the Astros wounded, the time to strike is now. Seattle’s inconsistent offense and pitching staff has shown fans the immense ceiling if it can all click, as well as the terrible floor if they are not in sync. That type of baseball might be enough for a Wild Card berth, but it won’t be enough to lock down the division.

If the Mariners want to fully capitalize on Houston’s misfortune and assert control of the AL West, they may need to make a bold move. A middle-of-the-order bat, whether at third base, the outfield, or DH, (along with some pitching help) could change the complexion of this team.

With an astounding nine prospects inside MLB Pipeline's Top 100, Seattle has the trade chips to go big. It's time to stop prospect hoarding and make a couple of big splashes.