During the winter, Turner expressed frustration over the Mariners’ failure to utilize their exceptional pitching staff effectively. He believed that if they had made it to the playoffs, they could have emerged as champions. Turner emphasized the rarity of having five outstanding starting pitchers on the team, dubbing them as possibly the best rotation in baseball history. The Mariners’ rotation, led by Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, Luis Castillo, Bryce Miller, and Bryan Woo, achieved remarkable success, setting franchise records in various pitching categories.
Despite the pitching excellence, Turner criticized the team for neglecting to bolster their offense with key acquisitions, missing out on opportunities to strengthen their lineup. The fans, players, and even some members of the management felt disappointed by the team’s low spending in free agency compared to other teams. The players were hopeful of potential signings but remained understanding of the financial constraints faced by the organization.
While some players expressed their frustrations discreetly, the team as a whole remained united and focused on the players they have. With a renewed offensive performance towards the end of the previous season under new leadership, the Mariners are optimistic about their prospects moving forward. The change brought about by new coaching staff members, including hitting coach Martinez, significantly improved the team’s offensive output, leading to a positive shift in team culture and performance.
Kirby described the atmosphere as a unique blend of vibes, conveying a sense of relaxed intensity that was palpable in the room. He expressed confidence in the team’s potential trouble-causing abilities with their staff and clutch hitting prowess. The Mariners attributed their offensive improvement to a simplified plate approach under new hitting coach Kevin Seitzer, focusing on contact rather than power. This strategy, spearheaded by hitting strategy director Martinez, has resulted in an uptick in run production this spring.
Raleigh expressed enthusiasm for the leadership of new manager Dan and offensive strategist Edgar, noting increased energy and motivation within the team. Despite critiques of general manager Jerry Dipoto’s trade decisions, the team is dealing with payroll constraints that have impacted their roster moves. The fear looms that time is ticking on taking advantage of their pitching talent, with key players like Gilbert and Raleigh approaching free agency in the coming years.
There is a sense of urgency to capitalize on their current roster’s potential, with the team feeling the pressure to make a postseason push. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, the Mariners remain confident in their ability to compete with any team in the league.
To anyone and everyone. “When it comes to pitching, there’s nobody better,” Mariners first baseman Rowdy Tellez emphasized. “I would choose this pitching staff over the Dodgers and any other team. It’s an incredibly dynamic group of pitchers, and we’re backed by one of the best catchers in baseball.” This season, the Mariners have kept their entire pitching staff intact without making any trades for offensive reinforcements, and they have a secret weapon up their sleeves – a collective determination fueled by a significant chip on their shoulders.
“Almost every player in the lineup will admit to having had a subpar year, except maybe Cal,” shared Mariners outfielder Mitch Haniger, who struggled with a .208 batting average, 12 home runs, and 44 RBIs. “We all had higher expectations for ourselves. So, we are all driven to prove ourselves. Missing out on the playoffs was disappointing, but each one of us is motivated to ensure that last year’s disappointment is not repeated.”
Their motto for the 2025 season: Just get in, baby. “I believe we can compete with any team in the playoffs, whether it’s a three-game, five-game, or seven-game series,” expressed Gilbert. “While watching the playoffs at home, I knew those were the top teams in the league, but I am confident that we could have held our own against them. I genuinely think we will challenge other teams this year.”
Follow Nightengale on Twitter: @Bnightengale. The USA TODAY app provides quick access to the latest news. Download it for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper, and more. This article was originally published on USA TODAY: Seattle Mariners boast an exceptional pitching staff but remain focused on improving their offense.
