Daniel Kramer, the Seattle Mariners' beat reporter for MLB.com, hosted an Ask Me Anything session on Reddit's r/Mariners subreddit on Friday, offering insights into the team's offseason strategy. As the front office prepares for a potential holiday slowdown, Kramer highlighted remaining moves and roster considerations amid a competitive window. The discussion covered trade targets, player roles, and internal challenges.
Daniel Kramer, MLB.com’s Mariners beat reporter, engaged with fans during an offseason "Ask Me Anything" on Reddit's r/Mariners community. The session, timed before team offices close for the holidays and amid a cooling Hot Stove market, provided a broad overview of Seattle's preparations for 2026.
Kramer suggested that if the Mariners make one more significant acquisition, Brendan Donovan from the St. Louis Cardinals could fit well. "The tea leaves suggest Brendan Donovan would be a perfect fit in Seattle," he noted, though the price would be steep due to the second baseman's value in St. Louis' payroll-shedding efforts. Seattle's prospect capital positions them strongly among interested teams.
On the front office's mindset, Kramer indicated that president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto and general manager Justin Hollander have completed their major work but anticipate a modest additional move. "They’re cognizant that they’ve done their heaviest lifting," Kramer explained, crediting their handling of last year’s Trade Deadline and the lucrative signing of first baseman Josh Naylor for building credibility. Dipoto has emphasized being "comfortable being uncomfortable," evident in decisions like trading catching prospect Harry Ford.
Right field remains a focal point, with Dominic Canzone securing a role after a strong season, Victor Robles providing spark in key moments—like the late-September win in Houston—and Luke Raley viewed as a bounce-back candidate despite a nagging oblique injury. Kramer described rotating these outfielders as an "intriguing storyline."
Interest in Arizona Diamondbacks' three-time All-Star Ketel Marte is higher than expected, but Seattle balks at the demand for an MLB-ready starting pitcher. Dipoto and Hollander refuse to trade from their rotation, and Arizona shows less interest in Seattle's top pitching prospects.
At shortstop, J.P. Crawford holds the position for now, with his $51 million contract expiring after next season. Prospect Colt Emerson, the organization's No. 1, approaches quickly and could challenge long-term, potentially shifting to third base initially.
Internally, the team acknowledges recent losses in player development, including assistant general manager Andy McKay. Dipoto and Hollander discussed this at the Winter Meetings, admitting difficulty in fully replacing his impact for at least another year.
