The Boston Red Sox are right in the middle of rumors swirling around one of their most promising young stars: Gold Glove rookie Wilyer Abreu. Insiders are buzzing about a potential trade sending Abreu to the Chicago White Sox in exchange for the talented lefty Garrett Crochet, but there’s another twist in the story. MLB insider Jon Morosi has suggested that the Seattle Mariners could be a surprise contender for the young outfielder’s services.

The Mariners are gearing up for a deep postseason push. Adding a dynamic defensive talent like Abreu could be just the missing piece to upgrade their outfield. But for the Red Sox, trading away a Gold Glove-caliber rookie would be a bold move. So, could the Mariners swoop in and steal the show, or will the White Sox remain the frontrunners in this trade drama? 

Seattle Mariners become favorites to land Wilyer Abreu

According to MLB insider Jon Morosi, the Seattle Mariners could be a perfect landing spot for Abreu. Morosi highlighted the Mariners’ need for offensive upgrades, specifically players who can consistently put the ball in play. That is something Abreu excels at. It’s easy to see why Abreu would be a great fit for Seattle. Not only does he bring good defense, but his bat has some serious pop. With 50 extra-base hits last season, second among all American League rookies, Abreu would add significant power to a Mariners lineup that could use another impact bat. 

Pairing him with Julio Rodríguez, Seattle’s dynamic young star, could form an exciting outfield in the league. Rodriguez’s Silver Sluggers would complement Abreu’s Gold Glove. And if Abreu is indeed traded, there’s a strong argument that Seattle could be the preferred destination over the Chicago White Sox. While the White Sox are still in rebuilding mode, Abreu might favor playing for a contender like Seattle. The squad is coming off a playoff appearance and looks ready to compete for more in the coming years. 

The Seattle Mariners make a tough decision

The offseason is about to hit full swing for Jerry Dipoto and the Seattle Mariners. With payroll limitations once again hanging over the President of Baseball Operations, Dipoto faces some tough decisions. One decision that’s already been made? The Mariners placed infielder Luis Urías on waivers, and after clearing, he elected free agency. It’s a move that signals the Mariners are ready to move on from the veteran infielder, who struggled to make an impact in 2023. 

Urías was acquired midseason with hopes of bolstering Seattle’s infield depth, but he didn’t quite fit into the team’s long-term plans. Now, Dipoto’s focus shifts to other players as the non-tender deadline looms this Friday. Non-tendering is one of the more significant moves an MLB team can make. Essentially, it’s when a team decides not to offer a player a contract for the upcoming season. While some decisions may be no-brainers, others are much more complex, especially with players who offer value but come with salary concerns or roster questions.  

For the Mariners, these non-tender decisions will hinge on multiple factors—contract value, player performance, and how the front office envisions the team’s needs for 2024. Could the Mariners part ways with a few familiar faces to free up payroll? Or will Dipoto make calculated moves to keep key players on the roster while still making room for potential upgrades? Share what you predict in the comments below.