Mariners 2023/24 FA Rankings: #6-9
#9: JD Martinez, DH LA Dodgers, $15.4 AAV
If Michael Brantley is not the most professional hitter in this FA class, then that title should belong to Martinez. While he may no longer be the top 6-7 hitter in the game that he was 6 years ago, he's still a star level bat that can completely change the Mariners lineup. Having just turned 36, Martinez crushed both righties and lefties with 33 home runs and a .271 average in pitcher-friendly Dodger Stadium. If Ohtani signs with the Dodgers, then Martinez will be a legitimate option for Seattle.
#8: Trevor Bauer, SP Yokohama Bay Stars
This is a name that will spark strong emotions from a lot of people, and I get it. I'm not saying Seattle should sign him, but he is going to be ranked on this list. Two years ago, Bauer was arguably the best pitcher on the planet. A lot can change over two years, but he's been dominant in Japan as well. Not if, but when he signs, he will likely be a game-changer to their rotation and playoff hopes. Will be very interesting to see how that said team handles the media fallout from signing him.
#7: Lourdes Gurriel Jr, OF Arizona Diamondbacks, #14.6 AAV
If you've been watching the Diamondbacks Cinderella run to the NLCS, you've probably noticed Lourdes Gurriel being one of the catalysts of their run. The younger brother of the infamous Astro Yuli Gurriel, Lourdes has been one of the most underrated players in the league in 2023. A tremendous left fielder who can also play 1B, Gurriel brought a level of offense to the desert after being traded from Toronto. Gurriel posted a .261 BA as well as 24 home runs and tremendous contact numbers. Having just turned 30, the Mariners could lock up a great defensive outfielder that is emerging into a really good hitter in his prime.
#6: Rhys Hoskins, 1B/LF Philadelphia Phillies, $21 AAV
A true boom or bust free agent, Rhys Hoskins can be a premier bat in the Mariners lineup. Unfortunately for him and the Phillies, a torn ACL in spring training has kept him out all year, but he does have a shot at a 2016 "Kyle Schwarber" playoff return if the Phillies were to make it to the Fall Classic. When you think of light-tower power, Hoskins comes to mind. As he showed in last year's playoffs, he could bring a boom to Seattle that fans haven't seen since Nelson Cruz.