Top Offseason Options for Seattle Mariners to Finish off Winter Plans

After shoring up their major weaknesses, the Seattle Mariners don't have much left to accomplish this offseason.

Seattle's offense looks dramatically improved from a year ago after adding Nelson Cruz to DH and a solid platoon in right field. As it stands, the Mariners appear ready to compete for a playoff spot, if not more.

It's hard to identify any true black holes in Seattle's starting lineup. Barring an unexpected splurge on a free-agent starting pitcher, the Mariners are likely done making big moves.

Still, the roster could use some minor tweaks. The Mariners need more depth, particularly at first base, along with another bullpen arm or two to add to the pile.

Unfortunately for Seattle, none of the remaining targets at those positions are too appealing. The Mariners could enter the 2015 regular season without making any more additions and be just fine, but there are a few limited options available if they want to put some finishing touches on the offseason.

Allen Craig, 1B/OF

Craig fits Seattle's needs better than any free-agent remaining and might be the odd man out in Boston's crowded outfield. He could back up Morrison at first base and play the corner outfield when needed.

Steven Senne/Associated Press/Associated Press

Morrison earned the first base job with a strong second half, but he is injury-prone and hasn't played in more than 123 games in a single season, so Craig could fill in if Morrison goes down. While Morrison dosen't have much of a career platoon split, Craig has mashed lefties (career wRC+ of 130) and could start occasionally if Morrison starts to struggle against tough left-handers.

The problem is Craig is coming off of a miserable 2014 season, largely due to foot problems that may be too severe to recover from. Seattle also doesn’t need Craig badly enough, to the point where they shouldn't give up anyone of real value to get him.

If Craig can bounce back to his 2013 form (134 wRC+, 2.5 WAR), some team will be buying low on a solid player under team control for three more years. But there's a ton of risk with Craig, so the Mariners should only pursue him if they only have to give up a low-level prospect or someone of marginal value.

Joe Beimel, RP

With only one left-handed reliever a lock for the 25-man roster, the Mariners are adding a few arms to the pile. Mike Kickham, Edgar Olmos and David Rollins were acquired this offseason and are among those who will compete for a bullpen spot.

Adding Beimel to that list wouldn't do any harm after the veteran posted a 2.20 ERA (4.18 FIP) in 45 innings. With Charlie Furbush struggling early in the year, Beimel was a key member of Seattle's excellent bullpen in 2014, allowing a .183/.217/.288 line against lefties.

Bob Dutton of The (Tacoma) News Tribune indicated that the Mariners had some interest in retaining Beimel. 

Relievers are volatile year to year, and Beimel seems unlikely to repeat last year's performance at 38 years old. Still, the other options are short on major league experience, so re-signing Beimel for cheap wouldn't be a bad move.

Chris Young, SP

As it stands, the Mariners could live with their starting rotation plus Roenis Elias and Erasmo Ramirez for depth. The problem is that Ramirez is out of options and must remain on the 25-man roster, making him a likely trade candidate, possibly for the aforementioned first base depth.

Ted S. Warren/Associated Press

The Mariners starting five looked strong entering last year, too, before Hisashi Iwakuma, James Paxton and Taijuan Walker all went down with injuries. Young was a savior for the Mariners, posting a 3.65 ERA (5.02 FIP) while winning the American League Comeback Player of the Year Award.

Given the injury concerns in Seattle's rotation, it would make sense to give Young at least a spring training invitation, particularly if Ramirez is traded. The pitching market is still sorting out and some team may be willing to give Young more money and guaranteed playing time, but the Mariners could take a look if he remains unsigned in March.

There's too much wear and tear on Young's shoulder to count on him for a full season again, but he could work as a stopgap if things go wrong again early on.

All stats via FanGraphs.com unless otherwise noted.