If the Mariners are serious about making a push in 2026, a reunion with Ketel Marte might be more than just a feel-good story - it could be a lineup-shifting move with real postseason implications. The three-time All-Star, who originally broke into the big leagues with Seattle, is reportedly on the Mariners’ radar as a trade target. And with the team currently projecting to start youngster Cole Young at second base, adding Marte would bring both stability and star power to the middle infield.
Let’s break down how the Mariners’ ideal 2026 starting lineup could look if they do manage to bring Marte back to the Pacific Northwest.
1. Ketel Marte, 2B
Marte brings a blend of speed, bat-to-ball skills, and sneaky pop - the kind of profile that fits perfectly at the top of a lineup. He split time between the leadoff and two-hole last season in Arizona, but in Seattle, he’d be the clear favorite to lead things off.
The Mariners have tried both Randy Arozarena and Julio Rodríguez in that role with mixed results, but Marte offers a more natural fit. He’s patient, makes consistent contact, and can drive the ball when needed - everything you want in a table-setter.
2. Julio Rodríguez, CF
Rodríguez is the face of the franchise and a dynamic hitter, but he’s looked most comfortable in the two-hole. Batting behind Marte could be the perfect formula to unlock even more from the Mariners’ star center fielder. With Marte getting on base ahead of him, Rodríguez would see more fastballs and more RBI opportunities - a win-win for both the player and the offense as a whole.
3. Cal Raleigh, C
Raleigh has grown into one of the most productive catchers in the game, and he’s earned his spot right in the heart of the order. He’s shown he can thrive in the three-hole, and with Marte and Rodríguez setting the table, Raleigh could be in for a big year in terms of power numbers and run production. He’s the kind of hitter who doesn’t just hit home runs - he hits them when they matter.
4. Josh Naylor, 1B
Naylor brings left-handed thump and a clutch gene that’s hard to quantify but easy to appreciate. He’s capable of hitting 20+ home runs and has a knack for delivering in high-leverage spots.
There’s a case to be made for moving him up in the order, but the cleanup spot feels like the right fit - especially with Raleigh protecting him. Naylor doesn’t have to be the team's top slugger to be a key run producer.
5. Randy Arozarena, LF
Arozarena has bounced around the lineup, but he seemed to find his groove last season when hitting in the fifth or sixth spot. That’s where he did some of his best damage, especially during a red-hot July stretch. He’s a high-energy player who can change a game with one swing or one sprint down the line, and having him in the middle of the order could help extend rallies and keep pitchers on edge.
6. Dominic Canzone, DH
This is where things start to get a little dicey. Canzone had a solid regular season, but his playoff performance left a lot to be desired.
He’s got pop and can drive the ball, but consistency has been a question mark. As the designated hitter, he’ll need to prove he can be more than just a placeholder.
If he hits, the lineup lengthens. If not, the Mariners may need to explore other options midseason.
7. Victor Robles, RF
Robles is a bit of a wild card. He missed a huge chunk of last season after suffering an injury on a highlight-reel catch in early April - a play that sidelined him for most of the summer.
But when healthy, he’s a plus defender with speed to burn. If he can stay on the field and contribute at the plate, he’ll be a valuable piece in the bottom third of the order.
8. Ben Williamson, 3B
Third base is still a bit of a question mark. Williamson gets the nod here, largely because of his glove.
He’s a steady defender and has shown enough to warrant another shot at locking down the job. Leo Rivas is in the mix too, but if the Mariners land Marte, they’re likely out on big-name third basemen - which means this could be Williamson’s job to lose heading into spring training.
9. J.P. Crawford, SS
Crawford rounds out the lineup in a spot he’s been comfortable with before. As a ninth-place hitter, he essentially becomes a second leadoff man - someone who can work counts, get on base, and flip the lineup back to Marte and Rodríguez. He may not have the flashiest numbers, but his presence brings stability and leadership to the infield.
Bench: Leo Rivas, Cole Young, Luke Raley, and a catcher
With Marte taking over second base, Cole Young likely shifts into a utility role, offering coverage at shortstop and third. Rivas brings similar versatility and could be a valuable late-inning defensive option.
Luke Raley gives the Mariners a left-handed bat off the bench who can play multiple positions - including corner outfield and first base - and also serve as a backup DH. The team still needs to address the backup catcher spot, especially with Mitch Garver currently a free agent and Harry Ford no longer in the organization.
Final Thoughts
If the Mariners can pull off a deal for Ketel Marte, it’s not just a nostalgic move - it’s a strategic one. He brings a veteran presence, a versatile bat, and familiarity with the city.
More importantly, he fits a clear need at the top of the lineup and solidifies the infield. The rest of the batting order has its question marks, but with Marte, Rodríguez, Raleigh, and Naylor forming a strong top four, Seattle would be in a much better position to compete in a loaded AL West.
There’s still work to do - especially on the bench and at DH - but acquiring Marte could be the spark that takes the Mariners from fringe contender to legitimate threat.