3 Mariners Who Could Be on the Trade Block at the MLB Winter Meetings
The MLB Winter Meetings are set to kick off next week in Orlando, and if history is any indication, we’re about to see the hot stove go from simmer to full boil. The Seattle Mariners are expected to be active - and not just on the buying side. With a roster full of intriguing pieces and a front office that’s never been shy about making bold moves, Seattle could just as easily be sellers in the right scenario.
Let’s take a closer look at three major league players who could be on the move - not prospects, but established big leaguers - as the Mariners look to reshape their roster heading into 2026.
1. RHP Luis Castillo
Let’s start with the most obvious name on the board: Luis Castillo.
Castillo has been a fixture in trade rumors since last offseason, and those whispers haven’t quieted. Now that his no-trade clause has expired, the Mariners have a clearer path if they choose to move him. But that doesn’t mean it’s a simple decision.
At $24.15 million annually for the next two seasons, Castillo isn’t cheap - especially for a starter who’s posted a 104 ERA+ over the last two years. He’ll turn 33 in mid-December, and while he’s still a durable innings-eater with flashes of top-tier stuff, the Mariners would likely only deal him if they can unload most of that salary and bring back real value. That means either an MLB-ready prospect who can contribute right away or a proven big leaguer who fills a need elsewhere on the roster.
If that kind of return isn’t out there, Seattle may be better off holding onto Castillo and appreciating what he still brings to the rotation: reliability, leadership, and the ability to go deep into games - a commodity that’s increasingly rare in today’s game.
2. LF Randy Arozarena
Randy Arozarena’s name has been floating around the rumor mill since the offseason began, and there’s good reason for that.
He’s projected to earn $18.2 million through arbitration in 2026 - a hefty number for a player whose offensive production dipped significantly down the stretch. Over his final 53 regular-season games, Arozarena posted a .645 OPS. Things didn’t improve in the playoffs, where he managed just a .574 OPS.
Still, this is a two-time All-Star and former Rookie of the Year we’re talking about. The talent is there.
The question is whether the Mariners believe this is the right moment to sell high before his value potentially dips further. He turns 31 in February, and while that’s not old by any means, it’s a point where front offices start thinking about long-term value.
There’s also the matter of his role. When Dan Wilson moved Arozarena into the leadoff spot, his performance took a noticeable hit.
That’s not his game - he’s a free-swinging, high-energy bat who thrives in the middle of the order. If he’s moved back into a more natural role, there’s a good chance his numbers rebound.
But if the Mariners are looking to clear salary and retool, this may be their best window to move him.
3. RF/DH Dominic Canzone
The Mariners have a bit of a logjam in right field, and Dominic Canzone is right in the middle of it.
With Victor Robles and Luke Raley also in the mix - and Seattle reportedly pursuing Jorge Polanco, who could take up at-bats at DH - playing time is going to be tough to come by. Of the three outfielders, Canzone is the one who might actually bring back something of value in a trade.
He’s coming off his best big-league season, posting a 142 OPS+ in 82 games. He’s pre-arbitration-eligible, so he won’t cost much, and that makes him an appealing option for teams looking for a low-cost bat with upside.
But there are limitations. Canzone is a platoon hitter who doesn’t bring much to the table on defense or the basepaths.
That’s a narrow profile, and the Mariners may believe his trade value is peaking. If they can flip him for a piece that helps them in a more pressing area - say, bullpen depth or middle infield flexibility - it could be a smart play.
Final Thoughts
The Mariners aren’t in full rebuild mode, but they’re clearly at a crossroads. With a mix of veterans on sizable contracts and young talent pushing for more playing time, this offseason presents a real opportunity to reconfigure the roster.
Whether it’s moving a frontline starter like Castillo, parting ways with a former All-Star in Arozarena, or cashing in on a breakout bat like Canzone, Seattle has options. And with the Winter Meetings just around the corner, don’t be surprised if they make a splash - or two.