The Seattle Mariners head into the 2025–26 offseason with several major roster decisions looming. After winning their first American League West crown since 2001 and advancing on an exciting run to the ALCS, the team now faces the challenge of maintaining its core as free agency gets underway.
Key free agents include Eugenio Suárez, Josh Naylor, and Jorge Polanco — all of whom played pivotal roles in Seattle’s breakout year. Still, with multiple tough choices ahead, it seems that two-time All-Star Suárez may be the most likely of the group to depart this offseason.
Suárez delivered a strong 2025 campaign, slashing .228/.298/.526 with 49 home runs, 118 RBIs, 3.6 WAR, and an .824 OPS. After joining Seattle from the Arizona Diamondbacks at the trade deadline, he injected the lineup with much-needed power and veteran presence. His late-season surge was a key factor in the Mariners’ deep postseason push, though his rising market value could make it difficult for the team to retain him.
As noted by ESPN’s David Schoenfield, several clubs could emerge as logical fits for the veteran slugger — including the Detroit Tigers, the organization where Suárez began his Major League career back in 2014.
Mariners Risk Losing Key Two-Time All-Star This Offseason
The Tigers are coming off a strong 2025 season that ended in a five-game ALDS loss to the Mariners, and adding a player like Suárez could be the kind of move that helps them take the next step. His power and playoff experience would instantly make Detroit’s lineup more dangerous.
For Seattle, the decision may ultimately come down to financial realities. The Mariners are not known for making major free-agent splashes, and with Josh Naylor also testing the market, the front office may have to choose between the two power hitters. According to team sources, Naylor is viewed as the higher priority thanks to his steady production and strong fit within the lineup.
Even if Suárez moves on, the Mariners are still well-positioned for the future. Top prospect Colt Emerson appears ready to step into the third base role, while the core of Julio Rodríguez, Naylor, and George Kirby keeps Seattle’s championship aspirations intact.
Though losing a beloved clubhouse leader like Suárez would be a blow, the team’s foundation remains firm. With a few savvy moves this offseason, the Mariners could be primed for another deep playoff push in 2026 — and perhaps finally deliver a World Series title to the Pacific Northwest.
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