Three questions facing the Seattle Mariners this offseason

Seattle Mariners president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto stated a goal of winning 54% of their games over a 10-year period. Reaching that goal would have been enough for the Mariners to comfortably win the AL West in 2026.

Instead, after coming a game away from the first World Series appearance in franchise history, the Mariners took a significant step backward. Key players such as catcher Cal Raleigh, first baseman Josh Naylor and pitcher Bryan Woo drastically regressed. Manager Dan Wilson, who finished third in the AL Manager of the Year award balloting in 2025, was dismissed at the end of the season.

The Mariners are at a crossroads heading into the offseason. While there is a great deal of talent on the roster, inconsistency in the lineup and defensive issues torpedoed the season. A new manager will be in place for the upcoming season as the Mariners look to turn potential into a consistent winner. Failure to do so could lead to a complete overhaul.

Three questions facing the Seattle Mariners

1. Who takes over as the manager?

The biggest question facing the Mariners may be who their manager will be in 2027. Dipoto has said that prior major league managerial experience would be preferable, but is not necessarily a deal breaker as they look to find the right fit. The new manager would also be adding several coaches, as four coaches on the offensive side were let go when Wilson was fired.

Some potential requirements seem obvious. The Mariners' new manager will likely need to have a solid base when it comes to defense and an ability to translate and communicate metrics into game decisions. Dipoto reportedly wants an external voice to push back against complacency. While it is a long list, the Mariners managerial spot could the most attractive opening this offseason.

2. How long of a leash does Jerry Dipoto have?

Dipoto has been part of the Mariners front office since September 2015, and he was named president of baseball operations in 2021. During Dipoto's 11 years in charge of the Mariners, they have reached the postseason twice, doing so in 2022 and 2025. However, the Mariners have typically been a viable playoff contender, winning at least 85 games in five seasons in which they did not reach the postseason.

At some point, the Mariners will need to find more success than just a winning record. Yes, the Mariners have a strong foundation, but they are the only team that has never appeared in the World Series. If the Mariners struggle again in 2027, Dipoto's time in Seattle could come to an end.

3. Who takes over for Randy Arozarena in left field?

Arozarena has been a solid all-around player since establishing himself in the majors in 2021, with six consecutive seasons with at least 20 homers and 20 steals. He had arguably his best major league season in 2026, posting a .281/.381/.484 batting line with 26 homers and 34 doubles in his 670 plate appearances while stealing 26 bases.

Arozarena is also slated to reach free agency this offseason, where he will be one of the top players available in a weak free-agent class. Chances are, the Mariners will not be able to afford his price tag, leaving a gaping hole in the lineup. Top prospect Lazaro Montes could have the first chance to take over for Arozarena, but he has significant swing-and-miss concerns despite his potential. If the Mariners are going to return to the postseason, they cannot afford to make a mistake in finding a replacement in left.