Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of the Mariners' infield! This is where the action unfolds, and it's a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Mariners' camp is all about the infield, and their biggest moves this offseason have been game-changers. By re-signing Josh Naylor and trading for Brendan Donovan, they've filled two crucial spots. But here's where it gets controversial... they also lost some key infielders, Jorge Polanco and Eugenio Suárez, to free agency. This is a major shake-up for what could be the American League's best roster.
Naylor and J.P. Crawford are locked in at first base and shortstop, respectively, and Donovan is set to be an everyday player. His versatility is impressive; he's a solid defender at second base and can also handle the corner outfield. However, his speed might be a limiting factor, making him a better fit for the infield. Ryan Divish from The Seattle Times highlights Donovan's early work with coach Perry Hill, focusing on third base.
This seems like the simplest solution for now. Last season, Suárez and Ben Williamson took most of the playing time at third base, but Williamson was traded to Tampa Bay in the Donovan deal. Of the five players who started at third in 2025, only Miles Mastrobuoni remains. Donovan didn't play at the hot corner last year, but he has experience there from 2022-24, and his defensive grades are above average.
Donovan's primary role will depend on the progress of the younger players around him, especially Cole Young. Despite a tough finish to his rookie season, Young is still the favorite to start at second base. He's a former first-round pick with impressive minor league stats, and at 22, he's a promising talent. But here's the part most people miss... there's another highly-regarded shortstop in the mix: Colt Emerson.
Emerson, just 20 years old, is a top prospect. He was the first-round pick in 2023 and has an impressive batting line across three minor league levels. He's a consensus top 10 prospect according to Baseball America, The Athletic, ESPN, and MLB Pipeline. The likely scenario is that he starts the season at Triple-A Tacoma, with a midseason promotion in the works. While it's unlikely he'll break camp, the Mariners aren't ruling it out. Jerry Dipoto, the president of baseball operations, praised Emerson's skills and maturity.
The probable Opening Day infield lineup is Naylor, Young, Crawford, and Donovan from right to left. Emerson could get consistent reps at Triple-A while also gaining experience at third base. He's the future at shortstop, but he's not expected to take over from Crawford this year. If Emerson has an incredible Spring Training, forcing the club's hand, Donovan could move back to second base, potentially sending Young to Triple-A. This shouldn't be an issue, given Donovan's experience at second.
Now, let's talk about Ryan Bliss, last year's opening second baseman. He hasn't gotten as much attention as Young and Emerson, but he's a former second-round pick with impressive Triple-A stats. Unfortunately, he didn't get many chances at the MLB level due to injuries. Bliss ruptured his left biceps early in the season and then suffered a meniscus tear in his right knee, requiring surgery. He's back to full health this spring, and with his minor league options remaining, he could reclaim his spot.
The infield is deep, and it will only get more crowded when Emerson gets the call. Bliss and Leo Rivas have options, and Rivas had an impressive .387 on-base percentage last season. Mastrobuoni and Luke Raley are out of options, and it's unlikely Seattle will carry both into the season. They'll need bench spots for backup catcher Andrew Knizner and righty platoon bat Rob Refsnyder. Keeping Mastrobuoni and Raley would mean optioning Bliss and Rivas, and with all the hitters healthy, it's a tough decision. Dipoto acknowledges this, saying they may have to make some uncomfortable short-term choices.
So, what do you think? Who will shine in the Mariners' infield this season? Will Emerson make a surprise appearance, or will the veterans hold their ground? Let's discuss in the comments!
