Rays’ latest signing could help Mariners on trade front to rebuild infield

There are two types of MLB teams every offseason: those who are in hot pursuit of the game’s premier talent and those who wait around for the leftovers. Outside of a few anomalous instances, the Seattle Mariners have historically been scavengers, waiting around for players to be labeled “too good to go” and thrown in the clearance section.

In order to get there, the more preeminent names have to get taken off of the board first and the Rays have just brought the infield market one step closer.

The Tampa Bay Rays made their first big move of the offseason by signing Ha-Seong Kim. As per their organization’s MO, both Kim and Danny Jansen (who was signed in early December) were signed to short-term deals. Seattle was rumored to be one of Kim’s likely landing spots, but they never seemed to be in serious discussions with him. Their apprehension isn’t unfounded, as he comes with plenty of health uncertainty given the shoulder injury he sustained at the end of last year. For some players, this wouldn’t be a huge deal, but the injury could have adverse effects on his defense, which is his best tool.

Now that he’s gone, the rest of the market can move on. Since the remaining free agent infield options are thin, teams with pieces they’re willing to part with should see some appreciation in the value of their assets and should be more open to trade conversations. There are several organizations that fit this bill, including the Cardinals who have done little to close the gap between them and their stiff competition in the NL Central.

Now that the Rays have Kim, there have even been some talks of re-signing José Caballero, who primarily played shortstop while in Tampa. With Kim, the Rays now have a solid infield alongside Yandy Díaz, Brandon Lowe, and Junior Caminero. This would relegate Caballero to a bench role at best, potentially incentivizing the Rays to move him.

Unfortunately, Seattle’s own front office could be the biggest obstacle to getting anything done. Jerry Dipoto has been outspoken about his aversion to using any of the team’s talented starting pitchers as trade pieces, and despite plenty of interest in the team’s ace during this year’s Winter Meetings a deal ultimately failed to materialize.

The Mariners aren’t the only ones looking for more infield help before next season rolls around. The Yankees and Red Sox are also on the prowl and other teams could throw their hats in the ring at any time. If Seattle wants to get something done, they’ll have to do it soon.