The Seattle Mariners are wasting little time getting to work after missing the 2026 MLB postseason. Just days after their season ended, the club made an early offseason roster move by claiming first baseman and outfielder Michael Toglia off waivers from the Cincinnati Reds.
The Mariners announced the transaction Friday, adding a former first-round pick with major league experience and power potential. Toglia spent the 2026 season moving between organizations after struggling to establish himself as a regular contributor.
For Seattle, the move offers a chance to add depth without making a major commitment. It also gives the club another player to evaluate as it begins preparing for the 2027 campaign.
Toglia brings a switch-hitting bat and defensive versatility to Seattle. He has experience at first base and in the outfield, giving the Mariners options as they assess their roster over the offseason.
However, his offensive profile comes with some concerns. Toglia has shown power at the major league level but has also struggled with strikeouts and consistency. Seattle will need to determine whether its coaching staff can help him make better contact and turn his raw power into more reliable production.
The move comes after a frustrating season for the Mariners. They finished 76-86 and missed the playoffs, leaving the front office with plenty of work to do before spring training.
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Toglia’s addition is unlikely to be the kind of move that transforms Seattle’s offense on its own. Instead, it gives the organization another potential depth option who could compete for a roster spot.
The Mariners still have bigger questions to answer this winter, particularly when it comes to improving their lineup. Their early waiver claim is a modest first step, but the more significant decisions will come as the offseason progresses.
