Seiya Suzuki could be Mariners' dream free-agent Plan B if Randy Arozarena walks

In an ideal world, the Mariners should re-sign Randy Arozarena during the offseason to a new contract, to keep him in Seattle. Actually... that's not true. In an ideal world would include Arozarena adding decent defense to go along with his excellent offense, and coming back on a team-friendly deal. With neither of those things likely to happen, the M's need to consider some alternative options.

One option has Lazaro Montes and Michael Arroyo slotting into the corner outfield spots for next season (whenever that starts). However, there would be a lot of understandable concern about both young prospects starting regularly on either side of Julio Rodríguez. No matter the potential, there are still questions to answer about their ability to adjust to Major League pitching, as well as the respective defensive skills.

However, what if there was another option where the Mariners can sign someone who is of a similar age to Arozarena and has had a comparable offensive season? And in reference to our earlier "ideal world" comment, is a much better defensive option and will likely cost less than the three-time All-Star? Step forward, Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki.

Seiya Suzuki is almost quietly having the best season of his Major League career

Last year saw Suzuki get some national recognition, as he set single season-highs with 32 home runs and 103 RBI, resulting in MVP votes for the first time in his Major League career. However, the 2026 campaign has seen him be a more well-rounded and consistent player, having already set a career-best with a 4.6 bWAR. (His previous high was 3.5 in 2024.)

Arozarena might have a better track record and more star power but, as already noted, Suzuki has had a comparable offensive campaign in 2026. In fact, the Japan native has more home runs and RBI than the Mariners' enigmatic player, along with a higher slugging percentage and OPS. But where it really gets enticing, is when it comes to the defensive side of the game.

There's no denying the Mariners have been very poor defensively this season, highlighted -- or should that be lowlighted -- by ranking last in the majors in team Fielding Run Value. And it isn't even particularly close. Undoubtedly contributing towards this has been Arozarena's lackadaisical efforts in left field, which has at times even annoyed his own teammates and had M's fans tearing their hair out in exasperation. (Mostly figuratively speaking, although we wouldn't completely rule out literally in some cases.)

Mariners are best pursuing some calm to follow the Randy Arozarena experience

Suzuki on the other hand, has been a really strong defender, ranking in the 87th percentile for Fielding Run Value. Delve further, and he ranks in the 95th percentile for Arm Value, 88th percentile for Range (OAA) and 86th percentile for Arm Strength. Additionally, he ranks eighth among all Major League outfielders with 12 DRS.

Finally we come to the financial side of things, with Arozarena likely to be in high demand and probably in for nine figures. Suzuki meanwhile, will find it hard to top the five-year, $85 million deal he signed with the Cubs back in 2022. Harsh or not, he's now approaching his mid-30s and just doesn't get as much attention as Arozarena.

This doesn't mean that Suzuki won't still do well given the relatively weak outfield pending free agent class, but it still all adds up to a situation the Mariners need to take advantage of. For all that Arozarena has achieved during his time in Seattle, he marches to the beat of his own drum and can be a headache at times. Overall, it's probably best for all concerned if the M's turn the page on his chapter and instead focus on making a concerted effort to sign the more agreeable Suzuki.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow