The Seattle Mariners are currently navigating their interest in Japanese free agent pitcher Roki Sasaki, although it remains unclear whether they will secure a meeting with him. Sasaki, who has emerged as a top priority for the Mariners this offseason, has already attracted attention from several teams, including the New York Mets, New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and Texas Rangers, all of whom have reportedly engaged with his representatives.

Historically, the Mariners have shown a strong interest in Japanese talent, as evidenced by their public pursuit of Shohei Ohtani in 2017. However, this time, the Mariners are taking a more cautious approach, refraining from making bold public statements regarding their intentions with Sasaki. Despite having a solid rotation featuring talented pitchers such as Luis Castillo, George Kirby, Logan Gilbert, Bryan Woo, and Bryce Miller, the Mariners' potential inability to even secure a meeting with Sasaki raises questions about their standing in the industry.

While the Mariners do not necessarily need Sasaki, his addition could allow them to explore trading Luis Castillo, which they have been reluctant to do. Such a move could provide financial flexibility and help address their offensive challenges. Sasaki, at just 23 years old, is known for his exceptional fastball that exceeds 100 MPH and boasts one of the best splitters in the game today.

The Seattle Mariners faced significant challenges in the 2024 season, particularly with their offense, which led the league in strikeouts with 1,625. Injuries to key players such as Jorge Polanco, JP Crawford, and Julio Rodriguez exacerbated the situation, prompting the team to frequently adjust their lineup throughout the year.

In the midst of these struggles, outfielder Victor Robles emerged as a pivotal figure for the Mariners. After being released by the Washington Nationals, Robles was signed by Seattle on June 4, 2024. Initially expected to fill a minor role, he quickly proved his worth. Following injuries to Crawford and Rodriguez, Robles stepped up, taking over as the leadoff hitter and center fielder. His performance was stellar, boasting a .325 batting average, three home runs, 24 RBIs, and 28 stolen bases from July 9 onward.

By the end of the season, Robles had solidified his position with an impressive .328 batting average, four homers, 26 RBIs, and 30 steals in 77 games. This led to a well-deserved two-year contract worth $9.75 million, including a $9 million club option for 2027. Even after Rodriguez's return, Robles maintained his starting role, showcasing his adaptability and resilience.

Robles credited his success to a positive mindset and the camaraderie he experienced during his championship run with the Nationals. His transformation from a World Series champion to a player on the verge of being cut, and now revitalized with a new contract and role, marks a remarkable turnaround. As he looks to replicate his 2024 performance in the upcoming season, the Mariners are optimistic about his contributions to the team's future.

The Seattle Mariners are in a critical phase as they approach the 2025 season, with Opening Day set for March 27. The team is actively seeking to fill gaps at second and third base, and they are also looking for a first baseman to complement Luke Raley. However, as of late December, they have not made significant progress in addressing these needs.

During the Winter Meetings, there was speculation about a potential trade involving veteran pitcher Luis Castillo and Boston Red Sox first baseman Triston Casas, but that deal did not materialize. The Mariners have since missed opportunities to secure other first base options such as Christian Walker, Carlos Santana, Josh Naylor, and Paul Goldschmidt, as well as second base candidate Gleyber Torres.

With a payroll cap of $16-20 million for 2025, the Mariners might have to turn to trade possibilities to solve their roster dilemmas. A possible avenue could be rekindling discussions with the Tampa Bay Rays regarding first baseman Yandy Diaz. Seattle had previously shown interest in Diaz before the trade deadline, and with Tampa Bay's interest in Mariners prospect Harry Ford, this could lead to a mutually beneficial deal.

Diaz is contracted for $10 million in 2025, with a club option for 2026, while fellow infielder Brandon Lowe is owed $10.5 million. The Mariners may consider moving Harry Ford, a top prospect who had a solid season in Double-A, as part of a trade package. Ford, who has been recognized as a top 100 prospect, could be key to addressing the Mariners' ongoing infield challenges.

The Baltimore Orioles are in urgent need of pitching reinforcements this offseason, especially after injuries plagued their roster in 2024. While they may pursue free agent Corbin Burnes, other options like Grayson Rodriguez and Zach Eflin could step up if he departs.

Trade discussions are heating up, with Bryce Miller of the Seattle Mariners emerging as a potential target. The Orioles might consider trading top prospect Coby Mayo to acquire Miller, as both teams aim to strengthen their lineups.

Logan Gilbert, the standout pitcher for the Seattle Mariners, had an impressive 2024 season, earning his first All-Star selection and joining the 200-inning/200-strikeout club.

With a 3.23 ERA and 220 strikeouts in 208.2 innings, Gilbert demonstrated his pitching prowess, particularly with his devastating splitter. Despite facing challenges like poor run support, he consistently delivered quality starts.

As the Mariners consider his future, extending his contract seems wise, especially with his potential as a Cy Young candidate.