Examining a Mariners Roster with a few Alternate Timelines

The Marvel Cinematic Universe, or MCU, thrives on events creating breaks in the timeline. Hank Pym, Dr. Strange, Scarlet Witch, Thanos, Loki, and Kang the Conqueror are just a few of the characters who wreaked havoc on the storylines by messing with the infinite possibilities. So, what could the roster look like if Jerry Dipoto went all Dr. Strange and manipulated the timeline to fit his vision? 

Timeline #1 – Stability is the Name of the Game

How can this happen? Because the conditions in Peoria are ripe for a timeline fracture. First, the number of players in camp (75) creates seemingly infinite possibilities. What if there's an unforeseen injury? Or someone gets transported to the Quantum Realm (Chris Flexen), a la Ant-Man. Who steps up to the challenge? The fact is the timeline will ebb and flow, but the one constant is only 26 of those players will break camp with the team, but many spots are already locked in.

Timeline #2 – Ultimate Flexibility Pays Big Dividends

This team always gravitates to players with positional flexibility in the clubhouse (Haggerty, Hummell, Moore, White). Is there a timeline where Dipoto and crew can squeeze all these players on the roster? I'm sure Manager Scott Servais is channeling his inner Iron Man in a dark room underneath the Peoria clubhouse with a whiteboard and a dry-erase marker, trying to solve the equation. One way that could help is leaning on positional versatility with Hummel (1B, 3B, C, OF), White (1B, OF), and Moore. Top 100 prospect, Bryce Miller makes the cut due to his multi-inning versatility.

Timeline #3 – Old Guys Rule the Roost

Third, the non-roster invites and league minimum players that fit the Mariner model (Cole Kalhoun, Colin Moran, Tommy La Stella). Every good story needs the old guy to provide a sounding board and soothing voice when the youngsters are in a fight (see Captain America). This scenario brings veteran leaders abroad.

Timeline #4 – Bring in the Reinforcements

Dipoto has hinted that transactions could happen in the next few weeks as another team incurred injuries to key players (Astros, McCullers). There is no telling how the dormant trade market could factor into roster construction. This possible fourth timeline is all about a late Spring Training trade. The long-awaited Bryan Reynold's trade comes true at a major cost (Kelenic, Miller, and more). Dipoto also trades with Baltimore sending Chris Flexen and a Top 20 prospect to the Charm City for (1B/OF) Anthony Santander.

Like any good story I fully expect some twists and turns along with a few surprises. The bottom line is the possibilities are endless, and with Dipoto at the helm, there is no telling where this timeline is headed. Here's to hoping for a great story, no severe fractures, and another playoff berth. Grab your popcorn, its go time!