The Seattle Mariners are chasing a second straight postseason appearance under manager Dan Wilson. Before opening up a three-game series against the Baltimore Orioles, they are 37-36 and in first place in the American League West.
However, it's a close race between the Athletics and Texas Rangers, both just one game back. Even the Houston Astros are just four games behind the division lead. It's a race that may come down to the wire.
While battling to stay on top, the Mariners may look to make some additions before the Aug. 3 trade deadline. Seattle could seek upgrades in both the lineup and the pitching staff.
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With the deadline less than two months away, there are a handful of players Seattle could target. The Athletic's Jim Bowden is urging the Mariners to go after two All-Stars from the Boston Red Sox.
“If I’m the Mariners, I gotta be thinking out of the box,” Bowden said. “I want them to go get another big bat. I want another big bat, and I want a bullpen arm. Go get Aroldis Chapman and [Jarren] Duran from the Red Sox.”
Either one would give the team a boost. In 21 games this season, Chapman has accumulated 20.2 innings, a 0.44 ERA, a 0.919 WHIP and recorded 28 strikeouts. His opponents are slashing .141/.247/.197.
The eight-time All-Star would be a major addition to a solid Mariners bullpen. This season, their relievers rank eighth in ERA (3.46) and are tied for 15th in WHIP (1.33).
On the other hand, Duran has racked up 261 at-bats, 55 hits, 34 runs scored, 11 home runs, 36 RBIs and 18 walks this season. He is slashing .211/.268/.387. It's a bit of a down year so far for the one-time All-Star. However, with a career .765 OPS, he's proven to be a valuable player.
If the Mariners wish to stay atop the AL West, the front office may need to be aggressive before the trade deadline.
