Seattle Mariners Dream Lineup: A 2025-2026 Projection Following Cal Raleigh's Deal

Laila Abdi

5 min read

Post on May 28, 2025

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Catcher: The Foundation with Cal Raleigh

Cal Raleigh's extension secures a crucial position for the Mariners. His powerful bat and improving defensive skills make him a cornerstone of this projected lineup. But how will he perform in 2025-2026? Let's analyze his projected performance:

• Projected Batting Average and Home Run Totals for 2025-2026: Assuming continued growth, we project Cal Raleigh to hit around .250-.260 with 25-30 home runs per season. This offensive production from the catcher position is invaluable.

• Analysis of his Defensive Capabilities and Potential Improvements: Raleigh's framing has shown improvement, and with continued work, we anticipate a continued positive trend in his defensive metrics. His strong arm will continue to be an asset, controlling the running game effectively.

• Discussion of Potential Backup Catcher Options: While Raleigh will likely be the everyday starter, a reliable backup is crucial. Internal options like a promising minor leaguer or a savvy veteran free agent signing could provide valuable depth.

Infield: Power and Consistency Up the Middle

The Mariners' infield presents exciting possibilities for 2025-2026. Let’s project the key positions:

• Projected Starting Shortstop: While Julio Rodríguez's primary position is outfield, a potential shift to shortstop could be considered, especially if a highly valuable outfielder is available through free agency. Alternatively, a strong internal prospect or a free agent acquisition could solidify this key position.

• Potential Second Baseman and their Offensive and Defensive Contributions: A versatile infielder with a solid batting average and strong defensive skills is needed here. The Mariners could look to either develop a current prospect or pursue a free agent known for his consistency.

• First Base Options, Focusing on Power Hitters and Consistency: The ideal first baseman needs to provide consistent power. Internal options should be assessed, and if needed, targeting a power-hitting free agent is a viable strategy to fill this critical role.

• Assessing the Third Base Situation; Focusing on Potential Internal Options or Free Agent Targets: Similar to other infield positions, the Mariners may have a strong internal option, or they may need to explore the free agent market for a reliable and consistent third baseman.

Outfield: Speed, Power, and Defensive Prowess

The Mariners' outfield is already a strength, but further enhancements are always possible:

• Julio Rodríguez's Continued Development and Projected Performance: Julio is the centerpiece. We project him to become an MVP-caliber player, consistently hitting for average, power, and stealing bases.

• Other Outfield Options—Internal Prospects or Free Agent Acquisitions: Depending on Julio's progression and the development of internal prospects, free agency could provide complementary pieces – perhaps a speedy leadoff hitter or a power-hitting corner outfielder.

• Examining the Team's Overall Outfield Depth and Versatility: Having multiple players capable of playing all three outfield positions provides valuable flexibility and depth in case of injuries or slumps.

Pitching Rotation: A Staff Built for October

A strong starting rotation is vital for postseason success. Let's examine the Mariners' potential rotation for 2025-2026:

• Projected Performance of Key Starters Like Logan Gilbert and George Kirby: Both Gilbert and Kirby are expected to be cornerstones of the rotation, continuing to develop into frontline starters with low ERAs and WHIPs.

• Assessment of the Team's Pitching Prospects and Their Potential Impact: The Mariners’ farm system features promising pitching prospects who could significantly impact the rotation's depth in the next couple of years.

• Discussion of Potential Free-Agent Acquisitions to Fill Out the Rotation: The Mariners might need to acquire a veteran starter through free agency to solidify their rotation's depth and provide experience in crucial games.

Bullpen: High-Leverage Arms for the Late Innings

A strong bullpen is crucial for late-game success:

• Projecting the Closer Role and Identifying Potential Candidates: The Mariners could have a promising internal candidate for the closer role, or they might explore the free agent market for a proven closer.

• Assessing the Bullpen's Overall Depth and Its Ability to Handle High-Leverage Situations: A deep bullpen with several high-leverage relievers capable of pitching in crucial situations is essential.

• Discussing the Potential Need for Free Agent Additions to Strengthen the Bullpen: Depending on the development of internal prospects, the Mariners might need to supplement their bullpen with experienced free agents, specializing in high-leverage situations.

Conclusion

The Seattle Mariners have a bright future, and with strategic planning and player development, the 2025-2026 season could see them contend for a World Series title. This projected dream lineup, built around the foundation of Cal Raleigh’s extension, showcases a team with power, speed, and pitching depth. While predictions are inherently uncertain, this analysis highlights the exciting possibilities for the Mariners. Keep an eye out for updates and further analysis of the Seattle Mariners dream lineup as the 2024 season unfolds and the free agency market develops. Stay tuned for more articles detailing individual player projections and further analysis of the Seattle Mariners’ future! Building a championship-caliber Seattle Mariners team requires careful planning, and we'll continue to track the progress toward this dream lineup.