The Seattle Mariners were close to snapping their two-decade playoff drought last season. After their playoff chase came down to the final days of the season, they're looking to add some star power.
The first big move the Mariners made was trading for All-Star second baseman Adam Frazier. Their next big move could come in the form of acquiring former MVP Kris Bryant. Fansided's Robert Murray reported that they are among the teams interested in adding the four-time All-Star.
Adding Bryant would be a huge addition for any team but it would be especially helpful for the Mariners, who only had two players last season post an OPS of over .800 (Ty France and Mitch Haniger). Bryant has posted an OPS of over .830 in all but one season of his seven-year career. Last season with the Chicago Cubs and San Francisco Giants, the 29-year-old Bryant hit 25 home runs and recorded a slash line of .265/.353/.481.
The Mariners had the lowest batting average in the league at .226 and were in the bottom five in the league in on-base percentage and and slugging percentage. Saying they need offense in the understatement of the year and Bryant would certainly provide some. Another element of Bryant's game that makes him so useful is his ability to play third base and the outfield, offering Seattle some lineup flexibility.
The caveat, of course, is that Bryant will be heavily pursued by several teams. Landing him would be a tough task for the Mariners but it would be a huge acquisition if they can pull it off.