Mariners Trade Target #2: OF Lane Thomas
Lane Thomas recently came off the IL with a knee injury but has been pretty hot since being activated. In 8 games he has an OBP of .361 with 5 RBIs, 5 Runs, and 4 stolen bases. He is a much-needed right-handed bat for the Mariners. In 2023 Thomas had a slash line of .268/.315/.468 with 28 home runs, 86 RBI, 101 runs, and 20 stolen bases. All on a not-so-good Nationals team. Thomas is a free agent after the 2025 season. He will cost a fair amount but be cheaper than Chisholm, but would instantly upgrade the Mariners in Right Field.
Mariners Trade Target #3: 1B Vlad Guerrero Jr.
Vlad Guerrero Jr. is one of the bigger names on this list. Son of Hall of Famer Vlad Guerrero. Guerrero Jr. would be a massive upgrade to the Mariner's offense. He is a 3 time all star and is starting to heat up on an underwhelming Blue Jays team. This season Vlad Jr. has a slash line of .296/.389/.417, with 6 home runs ,27 RBI's, 27 runs. Vlad Jr. has been good enough for a 1.5 WAR and an OPS+ of 134 so far in 2024.
Vlad Jr. becomes a free agent after the 2025 season. Here is the problem: what do you do with Ty France? He has hit very well over the last month. Do they take turns playing first base and designated hitter? It is definitely a question the Mariners would have to answer if they were to acquire Vlad Guerrero Jr.