2023 Seattle Mariners are in a good place, is it good enough?
Houston Astros
Houston signed Jose Abreu to replace Yuli Gurriel at first base. But they couldn’t bring back staff ace Justin Verlander.
Last season, the American League Cy Young Award winner was 18-4 with a 1.75 ERA, and Houston won 20 of his 28 starts. Making up that type of production will be difficult.
Additionally, the Astros will be without Jose Altuve for the first two months of 2023. The All-Star second baseman broke his thumb at the World Baseball Classic.
The door is open for the Seattle Mariners to win the division.
New York Yankees
Yankees GM Brian Cashman didn’t shake up the Bronx Bombers too much. He re-signed Aaron Judge and brought in free agent starter Carlos Rodon.
What they don’t have is a reliable closer. Count on Cashman to fill this role during the season. So the best time to make a move on NYY is as early as possible.
In short, the Seattle Mariners have gained some ground on their two major competitors this offseason. By how much, remains to be seen.