FanPost

A few more signings to fill holes

First, I would like to say that the Mariners did a really good job improving the team already. Almost all their moves were good moves. Chone is a big upgrade over Beltre, Cliff Lee makes the pitching staff a million times better, resigning Ken Griffey Jr was also a great move. Griffey is a good teammate and he may have declined, but he still makes clutch hits, gets on base, and can still hit for power. I also believe he will be able to keep Milton Bradely in check. He is a good role model for him, ans a good prescense to have in the locker room. The trade for Bradely was another good move. People may have their doubts about him, but when he is motivated, he can play at a very high level. I think playing with Griffey will be enough motivation for him, he is in a good environment in Seattle. Silva was doing nothing for the Mariners, at least there is a chance Bradely can produce.

Now there are still holes at first base and the backstop, and the bull pen could be better. Russel Branyan played well last year, but his price tag is too high, and I am not sure he can produce like that consistently. I think a better option is Adam LaRoche. He has played well and has been a consistent player for most of his career. He would also be a lot cheaper than Branyan. He gets hits, gets on base, and is a consistent power hitter. The other option I have for first base is Carlos Delgado. Delgado is a better power hitting Adam LaRoche. He is capable of drawing walks and hitting 30-40 homeruns. He is also a good veteran presence to have on the team. The Mariners could sign him to a 1 year deal for 7-8 million and I think that he could help the team a lot. Both guys would be nice fits. There are a lot less options for the Mariners at catcher. They could either sign Torreabla or they could trade prospects for a catcher. They need to find someone because the guys they have are not good enough to play everyday. Relief pitching is important and I think Kiko Calero could help improve it a lot. He is reliable and consistent and would be nice to have in close games.

If the Marinres could pull these moves off, I really think they would be the favorites to win the pennant.