Mariners Rumors: New trade target emerges as talks with Cubs intensify

The hot stove hit scorching levels on Tuesday night, but the Seattle Mariners weren't involved. With the MLB Winter Meetings in full force this week, we are only scratching the surface of unveiling rumors and predictions. The Mariners are right in the middle of this chaotic storm, and they need to sign free agents or spin a blockbuster trade.

Seattle's biggest need is acquiring a consistent bat, whether that is an infielder or an outfielder. It was a poor effort in 2024 at the plate, and the M's need to build around star hitters Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodríguez. The Mariners have already been connected to the Chicago Cubs about trading for one player, but there's another guy who might be an even stronger fit with the Seattle lineup in 2025.

Mariners Rumors: Cody Bellinger surfaces as possible trade candidate

The Mariners have apparently checked in on former MVP Cody Bellinger. Since leaving the Dodgers two seasons ago, Bellinger has powered 100 extra-base hits with the Cubs and finished 10th in the NL MVP race in 2023. He took a dip in his twilight years with Los Angeles, but he has found a resurgence with a different organization.

Considering that Bellinger is somewhat back to his previous form, he feels like a tremendous fit with the M's. On top of being a power bat, Bellinger is a left-handed swinger who is good for 10-15 stolen bases per season. Bellinger would arguably be the most dynamic hitter on the Mariners, and he might be the spark that the Mariners have been looking for all along.

One other upside is that Bellinger can play multiple positions. If Seattle cannot lock down another outfielder, then he can easily fill that slot. Bellinger has also played 81 games at first base in his two campaigns with the Cubs, so he can possibly offer a full-time solution at first base.

The one issue regarding Bellinger is that he is a bit expensive. He is owed $27.5 million this upcoming year, so if the Cubs are willing to trade him away, maybe the M's could include Mitch Haniger ($15.5 million) or Mitch Garver ($11.5 million) in the deal to offset some salary if the Cubs are open to it.

If the Mariners are genuinely interested in Bellinger, they need to act fast because other teams have apparently expressed interest in the 29-year-old. This would be a tremendous addition for Seattle if they can land him. In eight career games at T-Mobile Park, Bellinger has 11 hits, including three home runs, and eight RBI. Perhaps that's a foreshadowing into more success in Seattle.