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

Viktoria Ivanova

5 min read

Post on May 28, 2025

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The Foundation: Cal Raleigh and the Catching Position

Raleigh's Impact:

Cal Raleigh's long-term commitment is crucial to the Mariners' future success. He's more than just a powerful bat; he's a cornerstone of the team.

• Offensive Prowess: Raleigh consistently delivers clutch hits and boasts significant power potential, making him a valuable asset in the lineup.
• Defensive Excellence: His framing skills and arm strength behind the plate are top-notch, allowing him to control the running game and guide the pitching staff.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Raleigh's presence in the clubhouse is invaluable. He provides leadership and mentorship to younger players, fostering a positive team environment.
• MLB Comparison: His overall game compares favorably to other elite MLB catchers like Will Smith (Dodgers) and Sean Murphy (Braves), though his career is still developing.

Backup Catcher Considerations:

Finding a reliable backup catcher is essential for 2025-2026. Several options exist:

• Internal Development: Promising prospects within the Mariners' farm system could be ready to contribute by then. Close monitoring of their progress is key.
• Free Agency: The free agent market could offer experienced veterans or up-and-coming catchers to provide depth. Cost and fit will be major considerations.
• Trades: Acquiring a backup catcher through a trade remains a viable strategy, depending on available players and the team's overall needs.

Infield Dynamics: Building a Strong Core

First Base:

The first base position in 2025-2026 depends on the performance and contract situations of current players.

• Internal Options: Existing players could continue to hold the position, contingent on their continued development and performance.
• Free Agent Acquisitions: The Mariners could target free agent first basemen with proven track records to strengthen the position.
• Positional Shifts: Depending on roster needs, other infielders may be shifted to first base.

Second Base/Shortstop:

These key infield positions require players with speed, agility, and strong defensive skills.

• Internal Competition: Existing players could compete internally for these spots, pushing each other to improve.
• External Acquisitions: The Mariners could look to acquire established players through free agency or trades to solidify these positions.
• Prospect Development: Young talent within the organization may emerge as contenders for starting roles.

Third Base:

The third base position also presents possibilities for internal promotion or external acquisition.

• Current Players: Existing players could continue to solidify their role depending on their performance and contract status.
• Free Agent Targets: The free agent market could offer several viable options to enhance this defensive position.
• Trade Possibilities: Exploring potential trades to acquire a strong third baseman is also a viable option.

Outfield Prowess: Speed, Power, and Defense

Left Field, Center Field, and Right Field:

A balanced outfield is essential, combining speed, power, and reliable defense.

• Current Roster: Evaluating the performance and contract situations of the current outfielders will be critical in determining their future roles.
• Free Agent Targets: Specific free agent outfielders who fit the team's needs regarding power, speed, and defense should be considered.
• Trade Options: Exploring potential trades could offer additional flexibility and access to top-tier outfield talent. A focus on versatility would be key.

The Starting Rotation: Pitching Depth and Ace Potential

Analyzing Current and Future Pitchers:

The Mariners' pitching staff will be crucial to their 2025-2026 success.

• Current Rotation: Evaluating the performance and continued development of the current starting pitchers is key. Contract situations will impact future decisions.
• Minor League Call-Ups: Young pitching prospects within the organization could be ready for major league action by 2025-2026.
• Free Agent & Trade Acquisitions: The Mariners might target starting pitchers through free agency or trades to bolster their rotation and add an ace-level arm if needed.

Bullpen Strategies:

A strong bullpen is essential for late-game success.

• High-Leverage Relievers: Acquiring or developing reliable high-leverage relievers who can consistently perform under pressure is critical.
• Long Relief Options: Having dependable pitchers capable of long relief appearances to give the starters extra rest is another key component.
• Bullpen Versatility: A flexible bullpen with a variety of pitching styles and arm slots will add another layer of success.

Key Factors Influencing the Lineup:

Prospects and their Development:

The Mariners’ minor league system holds several promising prospects who could significantly impact the 2025-2026 lineup.

• Projected Arrival Times: Tracking the progress of top prospects and projecting their arrival in the major leagues is key to creating accurate projections.
• Positional Needs: The Mariners should focus on prospects who could fill specific lineup holes based on the performances of current players.

Free Agency and Trades:

Free agency and trades will undoubtedly shape the 2025-2026 Seattle Mariners dream lineup.

• Free Agent Targets: Identifying and pursuing key free agents who fit the team's needs and budget is critical.
• Trade Scenarios: The Mariners may look to make strategic trades to acquire players who address specific needs or improve overall team balance.

Conclusion: Building the Ultimate Seattle Mariners Dream Lineup

This projection of the Seattle Mariners dream lineup for 2025-2026 highlights the importance of Cal Raleigh's contract extension, the development of young prospects, and strategic moves in free agency and trades. Building a successful team requires addressing both pitching depth and offensive firepower, while also maintaining a strong defensive core. The road to the ultimate Mariners dream team will involve careful planning, player development, and decisive actions in the marketplace. What do you think? What is your ideal Seattle Mariners lineup for 2026? Share your perfect Seattle Mariners lineup for 2026 and your thoughts on this projected dream team in the comments below! Let's build the ultimate Mariners dream team together!