The Seattle Mariners are exploring third base options ahead of the trade deadline, focusing not only on former Mariner Eugenio Suárez but also showing growing interest in Colorado Rockies third baseman Ryan McMahon. While Suárez remains the priority, his availability is uncertain with the Arizona Diamondbacks contending for a National League Wild Card spot. To avoid putting all their hopes on one player, the Mariners have broadened their search to include McMahon, according to reports by Patrick Saunders of the Denver Post.
McMahon Offers Youth and Defense with Mixed Offensive Results
At 30 years old, McMahon brings different strengths compared to Suárez. Although he doesn’t match Suárez’s power output, McMahon is younger and provides superior defense at third base, a position that has been problematic for Seattle this season. McMahon is under contract through 2027, making him a longer-term option. After a difficult start to 2024 and a poor finish last year, McMahon’s performance has risen since May 1; he boasts a batting line of .249/.333/.478, with 14 home runs, 12 doubles, and a triple during that span. His walk rate of 11.2% is encouraging, though his 29.7% strikeout rate and issues with consistent contact remain areas of concern.
Significant Home/Road Split Could Impact Transition
One notable aspect of McMahon’s game is his stark performance difference between home and away games. Playing at Coors Field, he holds a robust .253/.368/.500 batting line, contrasted by a much lower .189/.265/.324 slash on the road. This split is not uncommon among Rockies players due to the unique altitude effects at Coors Field, which have historically inflated offensive statistics. Players such as Matt Holliday, Dexter Fowler, and Nolan Arenado also exhibited similar disparities before finding success after moving to other teams. However, adjusting to Seattle’s T-Mobile Park, widely regarded as a pitcher-friendly ballpark, might present a significant challenge for McMahon’s offensive production.
Strong Recent Performance and Manageable Contract Terms
McMahon has been especially productive in recent games, with a six-game hitting streak and a .345/.406/.848 line over his last eight contests, including four home runs and two doubles, not counting a recent walk. His financial commitments include a $12 million salary in 2025, with approximately $4.32 million remaining, followed by $16 million per year in 2026 and 2027. While his contract is less lucrative than some premier third basemen, such as Matt Chapman‘s six-year, $151 million deal beginning at age 32, McMahon’s contract appears more budget-friendly as the Mariners seek to improve payroll flexibility for this summer’s trade window.
Mariners Struggle to Solidify Third Base Position
Third base remains a weak spot for Seattle this year, with rookie Ben Williamson filling in as the primary option. Williamson, a 24-year-old second-round pick from 2023, was fast-tracked to the majors after just 14 Triple-A games but has struggled to provide power or on-base consistency, hitting .256/.289/.315 with a single homer in 268 plate appearances. The Mariners also hoped that veteran switch-hitter Jorge Polanco, who re-signed as a free agent and intended to shift from second base to third, could fill the gap. However, injuries to his knee and side have restricted Polanco mostly to designated hitter duties. Despite limited defensive innings (113 this season), Polanco has maintained a solid offensive line with a .254/.313/.462 slash, including 15 homers and a low 14.2% strikeout rate.
Rockies’ Trade Approach May Open Door for McMahon Deal
The Colorado Rockies have traditionally been hesitant to engage actively in the trade market, often holding onto players beyond their peak trade value. This tendency might be shifting as the Rockies face a potential rebuilding season in 2025. McMahon, whose value took a hit during a rough few months earlier in 2024, has regained some trade appeal thanks to his recent surge in performance. Several journalists, including Patrick Saunders, Jeff Passan of ESPN, and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, have indicated that the Rockies could be more willing to consider trading veteran players before the July 31 deadline.
Possible Impact on Mariners’ Playoff Hopes and Roster Stability
If the Mariners succeed in acquiring Ryan McMahon, they would address a significant defensive deficiency while adding a capable, if not elite, bat at third base. Given Seattle’s recent challenges in that infield spot and ownership’s reported willingness to increase payroll, McMahon’s affordable contract and rebounding performance make him an attractive option as the team pushes for a playoff berth. How McMahon adapts from the hitter-friendly conditions of Coors Field to the more challenging environment of T-Mobile Park will be critical for the Mariners as they seek to strengthen their roster during the stretch run.