Dylan Moore Sparks Speculation with Possible Mariners Return

As the Seattle Mariners weigh their infield options amid injury concerns, the door may open for a potential reunion with versatile veteran Dylan Moore.

Could Dylan Moore Make a Return to the Seattle Mariners?

The Seattle Mariners might be pondering a familiar face to bolster their roster depth. Veteran utility player Dylan Moore is on the verge of becoming a free agent, as reported by league sources.

The Phillies have a 48-hour window to add him to their 40-man roster, or Moore will be available on the market. Teams like the Astros, Mets, and Orioles, dealing with injury woes, might show interest.

Crawford's Situation

J.P. Crawford, the Mariners’ longest-serving player, has faced a challenging spring with limited action due to shoulder concerns.

Although structurally sound, a recent visit to Dr. Keith Meister resulted in an injection, casting doubt on his readiness for Opening Day.

This uncertainty leaves the Mariners considering contingency plans.

Options for the Mariners

One potential move could be promoting top prospect Colt Emerson. However, with only 40 games above High-A, it might be premature.

Leo Rivas could fill in for Crawford, but that opens up a spot on the bench. Ryan Bliss is another option, though his experience and ability to cover shortstop or third base remain in question.

Miles Mastrobuoni is also in the mix, but he's dealing with a calf injury from the World Baseball Classic.

Could Moore step in to provide the Mariners with some much-needed depth?

Moore's Background

Dylan Moore, now 33, spent seven seasons with the Mariners from 2019 to 2025, earning a Gold Glove in 2024 for his versatility. Despite a modest .205 batting average in Seattle, his power and speed (116 stolen bases) made him a key bench player.

After a dip in offensive performance in 2025, he moved to the Rangers, where he showed improvement with a .259 average over 18 games. This spring, however, he’s struggled, hitting just .172 with the Phillies.

The Mariners' Dilemma

In an ideal scenario, the Mariners would find a right-handed infielder capable of covering shortstop, making Moore an intriguing option. Yet, his offensive struggles over the past year can't be ignored.

Keeping Rivas as the starter, with Mastrobuoni or Bliss on the bench, might be a more reliable strategy. If both Crawford and Rivas end up on the injured list simultaneously, Moore could still be available, making a reunion a possibility worth considering.