If Mariners Are Buyers, First Need Is At Third Base

(Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

After going 5-4 on the most difficult road trip of the year, the Seattle Mariners suddenly look a team that can legitimately contend for a wide open American League West title.

At 42-39 on the season, and sitting just 3.5 games behind the first place Texas Rangers and Los Angeles Angels, the M's endured a brutal stretch of nine contests that took them from Chavez Ravine (Los Angeles Dodgers), to the new Yankee Stadium (New York Yankees) and finally to Fenway Park (Boston Red Sox) before returning home today.

By producing a winning record over the past week-and-a-half, the Mariners proved they are worthy of the "Buyers" tag as the trade deadline nears. If management agrees with that assessment, the first void they need to fill is at third base.

For a week now, the team has employed utility man Chris Woodward as their de facto three bagger. Woodward has been acting in place of Adrian Beltre, who underwent surgery a week ago to repair a shoulder injury, and will be lost for six-to-eight weeks.

By the time Beltre returns from the disabled list, the M's season could be all but decided. This means the Mariners need to take control of their fortunes and address the gaping hole on the left side of their infield now.

With few in-house options ready to assume the duty (top prospect Matt Tuiasosopo is recovering from his own health problems, while the team appears hesitant to trust minor leaguer Chris Shelton), Seattle will be looking to find a trading partner amongst the deadline sellers. We profile a few players who might just fit the Mariners' need.

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?