The Seattle Mariners are entering the new season with a buzz that's been a long time coming. After breaking a 21-year playoff drought, they’re now the reigning American League West champions.
Last season, they pushed the Toronto Blue Jays to a thrilling seven-game series in the ALCS. And the offseason?
It’s been nothing short of impressive, with key moves like re-signing Josh Naylor, adding Rob Refsnyder, and trading for Brendan Donovan.
These strategic enhancements have positioned the Mariners as a formidable force. According to FanGraphs, they’re leading the American League with a projected 88 wins for 2026. Their playoff odds are equally promising, boasting the highest percentages in the AL for making the playoffs (79.7%), winning their division (61.5%), securing a bye through the wild card round (45.3%), and even clinching the World Series title (8.2%).
This level of anticipation is unprecedented for the Mariners. Veteran MLB reporter Buster Olney remarked on Seattle Sports’ Bump and Stacy that he can’t recall a time when expectations for the Mariners were this high.
Back in the 90s, with legends like Ken Griffey Jr., Edgar Martinez, and Alex Rodriguez, the team was always in the playoff conversation. But this year, the prospect of a World Series run seems genuinely attainable.
While the Los Angeles Dodgers remain the team to beat with their back-to-back World Series victories, Olney believes the Mariners could be the ones to watch if any team is to challenge the Dodgers’ dominance in 2026.
The optimism isn’t just external. Inside the Mariners’ clubhouse, there’s a palpable sense of belief.
According to Olney, the team’s growth last year has fueled their confidence. Conversations within the organization reflect a readiness to embrace the challenge and aim for the ultimate prize: representing the American League in the World Series.