As we know, the Seattle Mariners are pursuing offense and they might turn to Michael Bourn to patrol centerfield and take over their leadoff spot.
With the loss of Ichiro Suzuki last season, they have space in the outfield and a vacant spot in the lineup.
Michael Saunders is the current centerfielder, but he could maybe move over to right field for the two-time Gold Glove award winner.
Bourn can be that guy to set the table and boost the production at the top of the lineup.
The field is not ideal for hitting home runs, but Bourn is all about speed despite hitting a career high nine homers in 2012 with the Atlanta Braves.
He will not get on base as frequent as an Ichiro, but when Bourn reaches, he is one of the best basestealers in the league.
Bourn can place himself in scoring position and boost the younger hitters' production.
The Mariners haven't made any noise this offseason, but they have been rumored to being in play for guys like Josh Hamilton and Nick Swisher who will seek contracts north of $15 million a year.
Bourn's market became limited following the acquisition of a couple of outfielders as the Braves signed B.J. Upton, the Boston Red Sox took Shane Victorino and World Champion San Francisco Giants signed Angel Pagan.
Also in the battle for Bourn are the Philadelphia Phillies who have been closely linked to having interest in acquiring Bourn.
However, look for the Mariners to continue chasing after one of the popular outfielders in the free agent market.
Age Factor
The only way I can't see Bourn landing in Seattle is because it would goes against where they are trying to go as a franchise. Ultimately, bringing Bourn to the Mariners would mean they would sit one of their young players.
Bourn will turn 30 in a couple of weeks. Most of the Mariners outfielders are in their mid 20's.
Of course, the perfect excuse would be having Bourn, a veteran, signed because he can help this young roster of talented players grow and learn a few tricks on the basepads and help out their defense.
