Assessing the Mariner's Core

Tier 1: The Locks

Despite what looks like a sophomore slump, centerfielder Julio Rodriguez is still the face of the franchise. Ownership committed significant dollars to the 22-year-old, inking a contract that could extend to 17 years and $420 million. Despite the rough season, Rodriguez is the team's North Star and should continue to be the big draw for fans and, hopefully, free agents.

Backstop Cal Raleigh is forever itched in Mariner history, and rightfully so. He played most of last season with his thumb held together by tape and glue, provided leadership behind the plate, and authored a truly fabulous campaign offensively and defensively (4.2 WAR). Four-win catchers don't grow on trees, and the catching depth in the system is far from impacting the big-league club.

Righthanders George Kirby and Logan Gilbert are locked in as leaders of the pitching staff. They were battle tested and instrumental in the team's playoff drought-busting 2022 season. While both starters go about their business differently, they have similar intangibles that bode well for lasting success. One similar trait is their willingness to learn and expand their games, as both pitchers came to Peoria with new pitches in their repertoire.

If you asked me this question last year, I would omit Jarred Kelenic. He always had the talent, but his approach and mentals kept him down. The 23-year-old outfielder came to Peoria with a new approach and outlook on handling success and failure. The result? He carried this team for the first seven weeks of the season and continues to be one of two Mariners not to suffer regression. Put, Kelenic's name in the lineup card in pen. He's arrived.

Tier 2: Half Locks

This next group of players has shown flashes of greatness but needed to improve their performance or be in the game longer to make their mark.

J.P. Crawford came up to the big show at the ripe age of 20 years old. Six years later and in his prime, Crawford is starting to show an offensive approach that aligns with the stars of the position. The same stars Mariner fans clamored for this offseason. The former first-round pick made some swing adjustments and is now hitting the ball with authority (EV 89.6), spraying extra-base hits from line to line.

The only reason Crawford is in this tier is the amount of talent the Mariners have at the shortstop position down on the farm (Cole Young, Michael Arroyo, Axel Sanchez, Felnin Celesten). Those prospects' performance and rise through the system will play a significant role in Crawford's future.

Rookie righthander Bryce Miller has just seven starts, but he has already made history. The former second-round pick busted onto the scene, firing three consecutive quality starts. He is armed with one of the most unique four-seam fastballs you'd ever see. Teams are starting to figure out the pitch, forcing Miller to hone his secondary pitches. His last few starts have included more sweepers and changeups. If he continues this path, he'll join Gilbert and Kirby to form a dominant top of the rotation.

Manager Scott Servais uses his bullpen differently than traditional managers. Meaning he assigns relievers to certain pockets in the opposing team's lineup. But one thing is for sure, Andres Munoz always draws the short end of the stick. The 23-year-old flamethrower is a weapon out of the pen and continues to buzz through the late innings. While Paul Sewald usually gets the save opportunities, Munoz does the heavy lifting. He is the closer of the future, but he's making the eighth-inning must-watch television for now.

Tier 3: Quarter Locks

First baseman Ty France rode a hot start to his 2022 season to the All-Star game. He is arguably the most professional hitter on the current roster. When right, he's spraying the ball from line to line and showing major power to the gaps. The problem is, you can count on him to go into an extended 3-to-4-week slump, which often coincides with a hand or wrist injury. No fault of his own, but France is a magnet for beanballs, leading the franchise over the past three seasons. The good news is there is still time for him to solidify his spot in the core.

Jose Caballero has become a fan favorite playing the instigator role. His manipulation of the pitch clock and extremely high baseball IQ has vaulted him into the "Core" conversation. He may become an everyday player or a valuable guy off the bench. It's a small sample size, so questions about sustainability are out there. Either way, Caballero's ability to get on base, put the bat on the ball, and provide double-digit steals perfectly fits this roster. We'll have a better understanding at season's end.

This season isn't what we all expected, but the core is here. Additionally, there is some exciting talent waiting in the wings. We'll revisit this one at the season's end.