‘The Seattle Mariners are cooking something but what?’ is the thought of every fan after the latest news about their offseason came out. The Mariners are trading one of their biggest prospects and two other players at a bargain price. It doesn’t make much sense until one wonders whether this means they are all in on Shohei Ohtani. Or are they now a participant in the Juan Soto trade saga?

Until a few days ago, the Mariners were one of the favorites to sign Ohtani but then reportedly left the race. Whereas Soto would fit in well with their need for a hitter. Could the stars be aligning in the favor of the Sailors?

Mariners trade Jarred Kelenic in a mind-boggling trade

A few hours ago, a bizarre news broke on the internet. The Sailors had traded away star prospect Jarred Kelenic, veteran Marco Gonzales, and Evan White to the Atlanta Braves. In exchange, they got right-handed pitchers, Cole Phillips and Jackson Kowar. 

The Sailors had drafted Kelenic with much fanfare. Though in his first season with the team, he disappointed .589 OPS but last season he came back strong. With a batting average of .253 and an OPS of .746, Kelenic hit 11 home runs and played in 105 games. Yet, it seems the interest of the Sailors had sailed away from this young prospect.

Insiders call this a cash dump by the Sailors as Gonzales is due $12 million in 2024. All of this has led to speculations about why the Seattle Mariners have made such a bizarre trade. They could be looking to add major stars to their roster. 

The Mariners have a deep connection with Japanese players with legend Ichiro Suzuki working as an assistant to their chairman. This made them favorites to sign Shohei Ohtani earlier this offseason. But the team quietly stayed away from the sweepstakes due to other pressing needs. But this trade may open up a chance to return to the race. Their payroll is reasonably sized, which gives them a chance to make the signing.

Read more: Stalemate to Break Soon: Juan Soto Trade Talks Between Yankees and Padres Set to Resume

A bigger link, however, could be a certain Dominican slugger looking to change teams a year before his free agency. If they play their cards right this offseason, Juan Soto can be a big addition.

Juan Soto to the Sailors could be a possibility 

While the New York Yankees are heavy favorites to get Soto, recent hiccups in their talks have given a chance to other teams in the league—especially the Mariners.

The Sailors need a hitter, especially after giving away Kelenic. Soto will be earning close to $33 million this year. The Sailors have reduced their payroll considerably after this trade. Could they be going after Soto? It would certainly bolster their hitting powers instantaneously.

It’ll be quite interesting to see how the situation unfolds as the offseason continues.

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