Dream Mariners starting lineup for the 2024 season

5. Cal Raleigh, Catcher (S)

Cal took a huge step forward in 2023. Cal slugged 30 Home Runs, 8 more than any catcher in baseball. He was 3rd among catchers in fWAR (4.7) and 4th in WRC+ with 111. Cal has quietly become one of the best catchers in the American League, and has stepped in to be a leader for this franchise. He spoke after the Mariners were eliminated, that the front office needs to commit to winning. Well, with this lineup, the Mariners would put the league on notice.

6. Joc Pederson, Left Field (L)

Yung Joc is a proven winner. He is a 2-time World Series Champion, with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2020 and the Atlanta Braves in 2021. He is more of a platoon/role player anymore, but still an effective one. Joc struck out just 20.9% of his at-bats, while walking 13.4% of the time. He slashed .235/.348/.416/.764 with an OPS+ of 111. He would fit right in with Jerry Dipoto's claim of wanting to bring more contact to the lineup in 2024. He strikes out below the MLB average, he takes his walks, and knows how to get it done in the Post Season. Joc would be a solid add for the Mariners.

7. Eugenio Suarez, Third Base (R)

I went back and forth deciding if I wanted to replace Geno here. After looking at the free agent third base pool, and taking into account who I have added to the lineup already, I decided to stick with Geno. He has found a home here in Seattle, and he is a fan favorite. While he struggled with strikeouts (American League leading 214 times), he still managed to have a 3.2 fWAR season. He played in all 162 games, but hit just 22 home runs. That number has to come up, especially if he has another 200+ strikeout season.