The Seattle Mariners are positioned as aggressive buyers at the 2025 MLB trade deadline, with a wild card spot within reach and a deep farm system to leverage. Josh Naylor remains a coveted target, but escalating asking prices could force the team to explore alternatives like Steven Kwan or low-risk rentals.

Front office leadership has signaled willingness to add payroll, though high-cost acquisitions may clash with their typical approach. With the AL West still up for grabs, Seattle’s deadline strategy could define their postseason push.

Seattle Mariners Trade Deadline Targets: Will Josh Naylor Cost Too Much and Who Else Could They Get?

Is Josh Naylor Really Worth the Price for Seattle Mariners?

The Mariners have shown consistent interest in acquiring Josh Naylor from the Diamondbacks, but the cost of acquisition remains a significant question. Naylor’s impressive power numbers and left-handed bat would address multiple offensive needs for Seattle. However, as a rental player with an expiring $10.9 million contract, the team must weigh whether the prospect cost justifies the short-term boost.

Recent reports suggest Seattle’s front office is divided on how much to offer for Naylor. While he would provide immediate offensive production, the organization values its farm system depth and may be reluctant to part with top prospects for a rental. The Diamondbacks are reportedly seeking at least one top-100 prospect in return.

The Mariners have a history of being conservative with rental deals, but Naylor’s bat could be the difference between a wild card exit and a deep playoff run.

But what about the long-term picture? If we trade our best prospects now, won’t that hurt our chances to compete consistently?

Could Steven Kwan Be the Smarter Outfield Option Than Naylor?

While Josh Naylor dominates trade discussions, Cleveland’s Steven Kwan presents an intriguing alternative that aligns better with Seattle’s typical trade patterns. Kwan offers elite contact skills and defensive versatility, fitting the Mariners’ emphasis on run prevention. His left-handed bat would balance Seattle’s right-heavy lineup without the prospect cost associated with Naylor.

Industry sources indicate Kwan could be available for a package built around mid-level prospects, making him a lower-risk acquisition. His control through 2027 also provides roster stability beyond this season. The Mariners have reportedly had multiple scouts watching Kwan in recent weeks.

Why Kwan Makes Sense for Seattle’s System

• Better defensive fit than Naylor in Seattle’s spacious outfield
• Controllable through 2027 at reasonable arbitration salaries
• Lower prospect cost allows for additional deadline moves
• Career .380 OBP would stabilize the top of the order

What About Bringing Back Eugenio Suárez as a Bargain Bat?

The emotional reunion narrative aside, Eugenio Suárez represents a potentially cost-effective power bat who’s familiar with Seattle’s clubhouse. While his batting average has dipped this season, Suárez continues to show above-average power and would provide veteran leadership for the stretch run.

Suárez would likely cost significantly less than Naylor in terms of prospects, allowing Seattle to allocate resources elsewhere. His presence could also help protect Julio Rodríguez in the lineup by providing another proven power threat. Defensive concerns at third base may push Seattle toward using him primarily as a DH.

Don’t underestimate the value of clubhouse chemistry. Suárez was beloved in Seattle and could provide a spark beyond just his stat line.

But his strikeout rate is concerning – are we sure he’s better than what we already have?

Which Under-the-Radar Bats Could Seattle Target If Big Names Fall Through?

If the prices for Naylor, Kwan or Suárez prove too steep, several less-discussed options could provide offensive upgrades:

Minnesota’s Willi Castro stands out as a versatile switch-hitter who could play multiple positions. His speed would also add a new dimension to Seattle’s station-to-station offense. Chicago’s Andrew Vaughn offers more power potential but comes with defensive limitations. Cincinnati’s Jeimer Candelario provides switch-hitting pop but with less defensive value.

How Aggressive Will Jerry Dipoto Actually Be at the Deadline?

General Manager Jerry Dipoto faces competing pressures as the deadline approaches. On one hand, Seattle’s position in the playoff race and weak AL field suggests an opportunity to push chips in. On the other, the organization values sustainability and may resist moves that compromise the farm system’s strength.

Recent comments suggest Dipoto is more inclined toward complementary additions than blockbuster deals. The team has prioritized controllable assets in past deadlines and may hesitate to overpay for rentals. However, the unusual weakness of AL contenders could prompt a more aggressive approach than usual.

Most Likely Seattle Deadline Outcomes

1. One mid-level bat acquisition (likely Kwan or similar)
2. Bullpen depth addition
3. Possible back-end rotation insurance
4. No major prospect capital expended

The Mariners have built their success on disciplined decision-making. I expect them to make measured moves that don’t sacrifice the future.

But with Julio in his prime, isn’t now the time to go for it? We might regret playing it safe if we lose in the wild card game again!

The Mariners’ deadline strategy will reveal how seriously they view themselves as World Series contenders versus building toward sustainable success. While big names like Naylor generate excitement, the organization’s history suggests a more calculated approach focused on controllable assets and roster flexibility.