4 moves the Mariners could make to go all-in and become World Series favorites

Brent Rooker 

Brent Rooker came out of nowhere last year to become an all-star for Oakland. This year, he has become an absolute star while the A’s have been more respectable than in previous years. In a breakout year, Rooker is hitting .289 with an OPS of .944 with 19 doubles and 24 home runs. His OPS+ of 170 would have him in the MVP discussion in most years.

The 29 year old is making only $750k this season and is under club control through 2027. While he is a poorly graded defender in the outfield, he has a strong arm and the bat makes it worth it, but at this point he's mainly a DH.

For the Mariners, Rooker is not a perfect fit, but the bat is perfect for T-Mobile Park, and we know he loves hitting in Seattle. With the years of control, the salary, and the absolute heater that Rooker is on after the all-star break, he's going to cost a hefty price, especially with Oakland being a division rival.

Oakland has stated they want to keep Rooker, but I'd be surprised if they truly view him as the face of the eventual Las Vegas team. The right amount and quality of prospects will talk for a team that's 2-3 years away still.

If a deal was done, assuming the M’s have to pay a rivalry tax, I’d expect one of Cole Young/Harry Ford and Laz Montes will be the headliner of a package that includes three or four total prospects.