The Mariners are in search of a designated hitter this off-season and are looking at free agents to fill the void. Last year, the Mariners fell short in free agency in their attempt to replace Carlos Santana at DH, settling for Tommy La Stella and A.J. Pollock. Both of whom did not pan out for the M's in 2023. However, the Mariners were able to salvage the position thanks to Mike Ford, who made the major league roster after crushing AAA pitching in Tacoma. Ford hit .228, with a .798 OPS, 16 HR, and 34 RBI in 83 games during 2023 season.
Whoever the Mariners decide to add in free agency, they need to be more productive at the position. GM Justin Hollander and president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto cannot afford to miss on who they sign as the next Mariners DH. After trading away Eugenio Suarez and Jarred Kelenic, along with letting Teoscar Hernandez seek free agency, the Mariners are in desperate need of adding power to their lineup. Each of those players combined for 59 HR and 238 RBI in 2023. Which is why finding bats to replace the production of Suarez, Kelenic, and Hernandez is of high importance. Adding a new DH would be a good place for the Mariners to start.
There are good options at DH for the Mariners to pursue this off-season. The Mariners front office has been linked to several possible DHs this off-season. Here are three designated hitters for the Mariners to consider in free agency: