Mariners Offseason Notes: Trade Talk, Bullpen Moves, International Signings

Speaking today on Foul Territory, The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal still views Seattle as the favorite to land Donovan, largely due to the strength of its prospect capital. Donovan would represent a meaningful addition for a Mariners team looking to raise the offensive floor while improving defensively in the infield. Just as importantly, his versatility allows Seattle to create opportunities for younger players such as Cole Young, Colt Emerson, and Ben Williamson, while still providing coverage across multiple infield and outfield positions. Donovan is increasingly looking like one of the only remaining realistic options for the M’s, and checks all the boxes. And with the presence of other interested teams, such as the Giants, may eventually force Seattle’s hand.

Bullpen Additions

Mariners General Manager Justin Hollander was also on Seattle Sports radio, where he spoke about the team still looking to add to its bullpen this offseason as they move towards spring training.

That was followed by reporting from Cardinals beat reporter Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat that there have been discussions with the Mariners regarding relief pitcher JoJo Romero. Romero, who posted a very respectable 2.07 ERA over 61 innings last season, would be another welcome addition to a bullpen looking to further deepen its arms following the trade of José Ferrer. This could also become a package deal involving Brendan Donovan, though it would likely require a high price from the Cardinals. Any package deal could potentially involve multiple top prospects and even a fringe roster player such as Logan Evans or Luke Raley.

The Mariners have also added right-handed pitcher Yosver Zulueta, who was designated for assignment by the Cincinnati Reds on Thursday afternoon. A sinker/slider pitcher, this is an upside signing they hope they can develop into a reliable bullpen arm. Though for now it projects as no more than a depth addition. He fits the profile of what the Mariners like to target: high strikeout potential, a quality slider, and a unique low arm slot. While his numbers in limited major league time are not strong, posting a 6.14 ERA across seven appearances, he produced better results at the Triple-A level. Seattle will now work with him to develop him into a serviceable bullpen arm, as he has the tools to become a solid middle reliever.

International Signings

The Mariners also announced signings as part of their 2026 International Class, with some high-profile additions of note.

Juan Rijo, an outfielder from the Dominican Republic, has agreed to a $2.2 million contract, according to Baseball America. MLB.com ranked Juan Rijo as the 12th-best prospect in the class, and scouts have praised his advanced hitting approach for a 17-year-old, grading him a 60 for both hit and power on the 20–80 scale. Mariners Director of International Scouting Frankie Thon Jr. spoke highly of Rijo, noting his polish and maturity at the plate. “We consider Rijo to be a uniquely advanced player,” Thon said. “It’s a mature, well-rounded skill set with a simple, adjustable swing that we believe will lead to hard contact and strong on-base ability.”

Gregory Pio was another high-profile addition, ranked 32nd on MLB Pipeline and signed for $2.9 million at just 16 years of age. Viewed as a player with significant upside and raw tools, Thon Jr. described Pio as “a lean, exciting athlete and a slam-dunk center fielder.” His profile aligns with Seattle’s preference for betting on athleticism and defensive upside early in the development process.

The Mariners added two more ranked top 100 prospects in shortstop Leonardo Reynoso and catcher Daniel Alaña.