The Seattle Mariners find themselves at an important crossroads as they enter the next phase of their offseason planning. With a clear vacancy at third base and several possible paths they could travel to address it, the front office now faces a decision that could shape the team’s competitiveness for the 2026 season and beyond. The Mariners have built their roster with pitching and defense as core strengths, and they’ve made steady progress toward consistent postseason contention. But filling the hole at third base may be one of the more defining moves of their winter.
There are a few obvious approaches the club can take. One of the most straightforward scenarios would involve revisiting a familiar face: free-agent third baseman Eugenio Suárez. Suárez spent several seasons in Seattle and delivered dependable power, infectious clubhouse energy, and solid defense at the hot corner. While his strikeout rate ballooned at times and occasional cold streaks frustrated fans, his ability to hit home runs in bunches, along with his experience, leadership, and durability, made him an asset during his tenure. Bringing him back would give the Mariners certainty at a position that values consistency, though it would also mean betting on a veteran whose offensive production has fluctuated dramatically over the years.
Another path the Mariners could pursue involves relying on internal options. Young players such as Ben Williamson and top prospect Colt Emerson present intriguing possibilities for the organization’s long-term future. Williamson offers impressive defensive skills and a developing offensive game. Emerson, on the other hand, is one of the jewels of the Mariners’ farm system—a highly regarded hitter with advanced plate discipline for his age and the potential to become a future star. However, trusting young, relatively inexperienced players with an everyday role at third base for a team that expects to win now carries inherent risks. The Mariners’ window for contention is open, and relying too heavily on future potential might not align with the urgency of the present moment.
Of course, the Mariners could do what many fans have been urging them to consider: dip into the free-agent market and bring in a fresh face—someone who can immediately elevate the lineup. Free agency offers a broad range of choices, especially at the corner infield positions, though the cost of premium talent continues to climb. If the Mariners want to match their elite pitching staff with an equally imposing offense, exploring external upgrades may be the most logical route.
Until recently, however, one particular name hadn’t been mentioned at all in relation to Seattle: Alex Bregman. That changed abruptly on Wednesday when reports surfaced that Bregman, one of the most accomplished and respected third basemen of the last decade, may actually be on the Mariners’ radar. Up to this point, virtually no speculation connected Bregman to Seattle. In fact, the Mariners had a chance to pursue him last offseason when MLB insiders expected a robust market for his services, yet they chose to sit out of that pursuit entirely. Their lack of interest at the time suggested both a financial calculation and a roster-building philosophy focused elsewhere.
Now, the situation appears to have shifted. Bregman entering the Mariners’ orbit—even loosely—signals a potential change in their approach. Whether sparked by internal evaluation or external overtures, it’s enough to draw attention around the league. Bregman is no ordinary free agent. A proven postseason performer with a reputation for delivering in high-pressure situations, he has consistently shown elite plate discipline, above-average defensive ability, and a work ethic beloved by teammates and coaches alike. Even as he ages into his early thirties, Bregman remains a hitter capable of driving the ball to all fields and working deep into counts, qualities that would complement the Mariners’ current offensive profile.
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His presence in the Mariners’ clubhouse would bring instant credibility as well. Bregman is known as a fiery competitor—someone who leads vocally and by example. Seattle’s roster is talented but relatively young in key areas, and adding a veteran with championship experience would provide the kind of leadership that cannot be quantified on a stat sheet. His postseason pedigree, highlighted by multiple clutch performances with the Houston Astros, demonstrates a level of resilience and focus the Mariners have at times lacked during their recent playoff pushes.
But one question hangs over the situation: Why now? What has changed? The recent hints that agent Scott Boras has initiated contact with Seattle naturally raise eyebrows. Boras is notorious for stirring up interest in his clients by reaching out to teams to create leverage, which helps maximize bidding opportunities. It’s entirely possible that inserting the Mariners’ name into the conversation is simply a strategic move to encourage more aggressive pursuit from other franchises with deeper pockets or more desperate needs.
On the other hand, the alternative scenario is far more interesting. Boras reaching out to Seattle could suggest that Bregman himself has expressed genuine interest in joining the Mariners. If that’s the case, the dynamic changes considerably. Seattle has built a reputation in recent years as a team on the rise with strong leadership from the front office, a winning culture, and one of baseball’s most passionate fan bases. Pair that with their rotation—arguably one of the best in the league—and their emphasis on strong fundamentals, and it becomes easier to understand why a player of Bregman’s caliber might view Seattle as an appealing destination.
If Bregman wants Seattle, the Mariners owe it to themselves to at least investigate what a deal could look like. They must examine not only the financial implications but also the roster fit, the timeline for contention, and how Bregman’s skill set aligns with their organizational philosophy. Even if a signing ultimately proves unattainable due to cost, years, or competitive offers, gathering all available information is simply responsible front-office management. Ignoring the possibility altogether would be a mistake.
From a baseball perspective, the fit is undeniable. Bregman is still a high-level player who would immediately improve Seattle’s infield stability and offensive upside. He offers patience at the plate, strong contact skills, and the ability to perform in moments when games are on the line. These traits are invaluable, especially for a team that has suffered at times from offensive streakiness and situational hitting inconsistency.
Moreover, Bregman’s ability to handle the defensive responsibilities of third base with ease would give Seattle a reliable anchor at a position that demands quick reflexes, strong instincts, and a powerful arm. His baseball IQ is widely praised, and his understanding of positioning, reads, and communication would benefit the Mariners’ defense as a whole.
Financially, the Mariners have been cautious in recent years, preferring to invest selectively rather than commit to massive multi-year deals. A Bregman contract would certainly require a significant financial commitment—likely well above the $100 million mark depending on market dynamics. Still, for a player whose impact goes beyond numbers alone, the investment could prove worthwhile. Seattle’s payroll has room for a major addition, and the years of team control on their young core create a window in which adding a star makes strategic sense.
Ultimately, the Mariners need to decide what type of team they want to be in 2026 and beyond. Bringing in Bregman would signal a commitment to competing immediately, leaning into the strengths of their roster and making a bold move to bridge the gap between being a solid contender and a legitimate threat in the American League. He would unquestionably make their lineup deeper, more disciplined, and more dangerous. He would strengthen their defense. He would bring leadership. And he would signal to the fan base that the front office is serious about winning.
Even if Seattle ultimately decides not to pursue him, there is absolutely no harm—and plenty of potential benefit—in exploring the possibility. Bregman remains a player of such stature that a team trying to improve should at least gather intel and consider what adding him would mean for the organization.
If Bregman is truly open to Seattle, the Mariners need to know why, what he’s looking for, and how he envisions himself fitting into their long-term plans. At the very least, the conversation could reveal valuable insight about the market or lead to unexpected opportunities elsewhere.
But in the best-case scenario? It could lead to the Mariners landing one of the most impactful free agents available and filling their third-base vacancy with a proven star who raises the ceiling of the entire team.
Seattle may have plenty of options, but if Alex Bregman is really one of them, they owe it to themselves to see exactly where that path leads.
