Seattle Mariners Rumors: Chasing After Top Free Agents, Beltran Not Likely, Cruz a Possibility

Nov 26, 2013 02:22 PM EST
Seattle Mariners Dustin Ackley and Jesus Montero
The Seattle Mariners have been going through a tough stretch of the season after winning two out of three games at Yankee Stadium earlier in the year and after losing eight in a row since, the team has decided to send down two of its biggest prospects back to the minors in Dustin Ackley and Jesus Montero."

The Seattle Mariners have been trying to add bats to their lineup since last season and 2014 will not be any different. They are chasing after Carlos Beltran and Nelson Cruz. The only question is, do they have enough in their team to lure both of these players in? The answer appears to be yes and no. 

When it comes to Cruz, the Mariners might have a chance. Cruz will likely seek money and years over a team that will compete in the immediate future. Coming off his 50-game suspension, along with Jhonny Peralta, Cruz should be grateful if he can get a good three-year offer. Many expected the right fielder to seek a deal somewhere in the upwards of $75 million spanning anywhere from five to seven years, but that seems to no longer be the case.

The Mariners are probably willing to spend some money. Felix Hernandez would have ridiculous records year after year if the Mariners could back him up with some decent hitting, but that has not been the case since the man started pitching in the big leagues. The Mariners might have to shell out a few extra dollars if they want to convince Cruz to play in Seattle. Plenty of teams in baseball are willing to sign Cruz and they will probably offer better chances of winning.

When discussing Beltran, that conversation can quickly turn sour. The 17-year veteran came so close to winning his first championship and after smelling the roses, Beltran will likely sign with a team that can give him the best chances of competing. The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees have been heavily discussed as landing spots for the right-fielder. 

The Mariners are stacked with talent, but they are likely not ready to compete in the playoffs or even considered a favorite in the A.L. West. Beltran is showing that he has a couple of seasons left in him, but who knows for how long he will remain healthy and productive. Beltrans window is clearly closing and signing with a team like the Mariners would only prove that he is in it for the dough. 

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