Mariners Free Agent Target #3: Jeimer Candelario
Candelario might be the most realistic name on this list for Mariners fans. Candelario is a solid option for the Mariners to replace Geno; he won't be that expensive, he is a CTZ guy and has some pop. In 2023, Candelario slashed .251/.336/.471 with 22 home runs and a 117 wRC+. He also had a solid K rate of 22% and a good walk rate at 9.2%, both of which fit the mold of what the Mariners are trying to do this offseason.
Spotrac estimates Candelario to get a 3-year deal worth about $35 million, giving him an AAV of $11.67. MLB Trade Rumors projects a 4-year deal worth $70 million, giving him $17.5 million per year. I think there is a happy medium here for Candelario, as I think Spotrac might be a little light and MLB Trade Rumors is pretty aggressive. I would be interested in something like a 3-year deal at $48 million for $16 AAV. I would also consider a 4-year deal worth $56 million, giving him an extra year but an AAV of $14 million.