5 optimistic predictions for the Mariners as we head into 2023

Mariners Prediction #5. Ty France doesn't get hurt, hits .315, wins the Batting Title

This is one that I've harped on a bunch since Ty France got to the Mariners. When he is healthy, the dude rakes. Seriously, it isn't facetious to say that he is one of the best hitters in baseball when his wrist is healthy. Just take a look at how he's done when he is healthy vs how he has done with the wrist injury.

Healthy: 867 AB, .309/.381/.476 Slash line
Injured: 255 AB, .196/.260/.322 Slash line

That's a massive difference, and it's apparent whenever he is injured that it is greatly affecting his game. As always, the issue with him lies with how he crowds the plate and how often he gets hit. 48 in the last two years, one of the highest rates in baseball in HBP. If he can cut down on that a bit without affecting his strategy or approach at the plate, I think we are going to see him contend for the BA crown in 2023.

That .309 line while healthy is why. Take a look at the leaders over the last couple of years, and you can see that it would put him in the mix. .316 and .319 have won the award in the AL in the last two seasons. I think he can put himself in that general area, and end up taking home the award for the Mariners... IF HE STAYS HEALTHY.