The Seattle Mariners are reportedly in talks to deal some of their top pitching prospects in exchange for a veteran player, with sources suggesting that the target is a high-profile pitcher earning around $45 million per year.
Though no official trade offers have been confirmed, the Mariners are said to be looking for a veteran arm to solidify their starting rotation as they aim to make a deeper playoff push in 2024. According to insider reports, Justin Verlander, one of the game’s top pitchers, is emerging as a possible target. Verlander, who signed a two-year deal with the New York Mets worth $86.7 million in 2023, is set to earn $43.3 million annually — a sum that makes him one of the highest-paid veterans in MLB.
The Mariners, who have a wealth of young pitching talent in their farm system, are said to be weighing the possibility of parting with one or more of their top pitching prospects, including rising stars like Bryce Miller and Emerson Hancock. Both have impressed in the minors and at the MLB level, and such a trade could be a bold move to bring a proven ace to the Pacific Northwest.
Verlander, who is known for his postseason experience and elite strikeout ability, could provide the Mariners with the veteran leadership they need to contend for a championship. Despite being 40 years old, Verlander continues to perform at an extremely high level, and his pedigree could be invaluable for a Mariners team that’s seen success but lacks a true ace to carry them in big moments.
While Verlander’s massive salary makes him a pricey acquisition, sources close to the Mariners suggest that the team is willing to take on the financial commitment if it means improving their chances for 2024 and beyond. The Mariners have been patient in their rebuilding process, but with a core of young stars like Julio Rodríguez and Ty France, the team is eager to make a push for the playoffs in the coming seasons.
Should the Mariners proceed with this potential trade, it would signal their intent to go all-in on competing for a title sooner rather than later.
