The Seattle Mariners could enter the 2027 offseason with a need to reshape their outfield, particularly in left field.
After Taylor Ward’s disappointing stint with Seattle following the trade deadline, the organization may look toward the free-agent market for a potential upgrade. The Mariners could also create additional financial flexibility by allowing shortstop J.P. Crawford, who is set to become a free agent, to depart.
Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter believes Seattle could make a move for an American League East outfielder who enjoyed a breakout 2025 campaign, hitting a career-best 34 home runs.
Reuter projects the Mariners to pursue New York Yankees outfielder Trent Grisham, who could provide both power and defensive versatility.
“The Mariners will likely let J.P. Crawford walk to hand shortstop duties over to Colt Emerson, despite a lackluster showing in his first big-league run,” Reuter wrote.
“That gives them some financial room to make a play for an outfield upgrade, and assuming they let Taylor Ward walk, Trent Grisham could slot nicely into left field while also serving as an insurance policy in center if Julio RodrÃguez misses time,” he added.
Grisham’s future in New York remains uncertain, especially with the Yankees expected to give prospect Spencer Jones an opportunity to take over center field duties in 2027. That could leave the veteran outfielder searching for a new home in free agency.
However, Grisham’s 2026 season has not matched the success he enjoyed the previous year. Currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, he has struggled offensively while also dealing with defensive issues.
The outfielder is hitting just .211, ranking among the worst marks for qualified hitters, and his minus-6 Outs Above Average in center field reflects his decline in range and overall defensive performance.
Despite those struggles, Grisham still offers a valuable skill set. He does not necessarily need to be an everyday starter for Seattle, but his ability to provide power off the bench could make him an attractive addition. After hitting 18 home runs this season, his offensive upside could give the Mariners another dangerous option in their lineup.
For a Seattle team looking to compete in the AL West, adding a versatile outfielder like Grisham could be a low-risk move that strengthens their depth while giving them insurance behind Julio RodrÃguez.