Could Scott Boras Mastermind a Bellinger-Snell Double Deal to the Mariners Amidst Crucial Off-Season Talks?

Scott Boras must be grinning from ear to ear right now. With major blockbuster deals done this offseason, his clients have suddenly become the center of attraction. Players like Cody Bellinger and Blake Snell are about to see their super agent embark on his favorite work – getting blockbuster deals. Could Boras do something extraordinary and get both players a double deal?

A few reports have emerged that the Seattle Mariners are interested in former MVP Cody Bellinger. With there already being rumblings that Snell is hoping to play for his hometown team, could both these players collectively go to the Mariners?

Cody Bellinger/Blake Snell – An explosive package?

The Mariners have emptied a major part of their roster this offseason. By removing players like Jarred Kelenic, the team has shown their primary objective – change. With the team now looking to create a different base, additions like Cody Bellinger and Blake Snell can give Seattle a huge boost. 

Having finished with more than 87 wins in three consecutive seasons, there is no denying that the Mariners are a quality team. But they’ve consistently failed to take the next step in their evolution. While not many expected the M’s to spend much this offseason, it was rather shocking to them emptying out the club. Why would a team that finished with 88 wins last season decide to weaken itself?

Maybe because they’re looking to add quality players. There have already been links with Bellinger but could there be one with Snell as well? The Cy Young Award winner has made his intentions clear multiple times that he wants to play for his hometown team. With both free agents available, can the Mariners strike while the iron is hot?  

Watch this story: From Black Betsy to Wonder Boy- Baseball’s most iconic bats

But advantages aside, there might be two issues that can jeopardize this potential super double deal.

Abundance of Pitchers + Boras’ dislike = trouble? 

Last season, the Mariners had a phenomenal pitching record. With a cumulative ERA of a mere 3.74, the Mariners were second in the league. The important part is that their core five starters will remain the same in 2024 as well. With nearly every pitcher at their absolute best, where does Snell even fit in this squad? No doubt, having a pitcher of Snell’s quality is a bonus that every team would want but if he doesn’t fit, what even is the point?

As if that wasn’t enough, there have been reports that Scott Boras has little love for Seattle. His experience while negotiating with the team has been less than ideal. Though Boras will likely do what is best for his clients, will a not-very-high-spending Mariners club be able to tempt the agent with big amounts?

Read more: Despite Buzzing Market, Will Blake Snell Wait for His Perfect Free Agency Fit?