3 under-the-radar Mariners to follow in Spring Training

Under-the-radar Mariner #1 2B/OF Samad Taylor

Samad Taylor is an interesting backup infielder candidate for Seattle who could replace former Mariners second baseman Jose Caballero. Similar to Caballero, Taylor has incredible speed, which was on display last year when he stole 43 bases in AAA Omaha and eight with the Royals (in just 60 AB). Caballero had 26 stolen bases for the Mariners last season and was the player Seattle turned to when they needed to steal a base late in games. Taylor could play a similar role for the Mariners in 2024.

The Mariners acquired Samad Taylor in a trade with the Royals for a PTBN or cash considerations. Expect him to compete with utility players Dylan Moore and Sam Haggerty for a final roster spot. Taylor is known to hit for contact, with a .263/.354/.425 slash line in his minor league career. He made his major league debut for the Royals in 2023, appearing in 31 games.

For Taylor, the biggest question for him to make the roster, is do the Mariners have room for him on their roster? He has a similar profile to Haggerty and Moore which could be difficult to rise above. However, Taylor's speed is quite a separator as far as talent goes. What impressions Taylor makes on the Mariners coaching staff and front office will be interesting to follow during Spring Training.