Following a successful 2025 season, the Seattle Mariners saw three of their primary position players enter free agency. So far, Josh Naylor has returned to the club on a five-year, $92.5 million contract, while Jorge Polanco has moved on to the New York Mets. That leaves third baseman Eugenio Suárez as the lone remaining free agent from the group.
The Mariners had been linked to Japanese free agent Munetaka Murakami. However, he ultimately signed with the Chicago White Sox earlier this week. The move forced Seattle to refocus their efforts, potentially to include a familiar face.
Eugenio Suarez’s Talents
During a recent interview with MLB Network Radio on Sirius XM, Mariners general manager Justin Hollander spoke highly of Suárez and the possibility of his return.
“We love Geno,” Hollander said. “Geno brings a ton not just on the field, but off the field, his steady presence, great makeup, [and] what he brings to a clubhouse every day, it’s really hard to replicate. So we’ve maintained contact with Geno’s reps all winter long.”
In 2025, Suárez reaffirmed his reputation as a premier power hitter, launching 49 home runs while driving in 118 RBIs. He posted a .228 batting average and an .824 OPS across 657 plate appearances. While his overall performance with the team may not have fully matched expectations, Suárez remained a vital part of the Mariners’ lineup.
His importance was evident during Game 5 of the ALCS. During which Suárez delivered an eighth-inning grand slam that secured a win, giving Seattle a 3–2 series lead. Unfortunately for the Mariners, they went on to lose Games 6 and 7, ending their postseason run in heartbreaking fashion.
If Suárez does return to Seattle, it’s likely he would see more time as a designated hitter rather than as an everyday third baseman. The Mariners have solid in-house options at the hot corner. This includes Ben Williamson, who started 85 games at third base before Seattle acquired Suárez at the trade deadline. Another option lies with Colt Emerson, who brings more offensive upside, having hit 16 home runs in 2025 across three minor league teams.
Return to Seattle
It’s safe to say the Mariners and their fan base would be thrilled to see Suárez return to T-Mobile Park. Retaining the veteran could offer both continuity and stability as Seattle looks to build on its 2025 campaign. Beyond his talents, Suárez’s familiarity with expectations in Seattle reduces the risk that often accompanies the addition of new players. For a team with championship goals, that carries weight.
Concerning the Mariners future, a reunion would also offer flexibility. Suárez’s ability to act as designated hitter or third base would allow younger players to step in while maintaining stability. It would also help balance a lineup that sometimes struggled for consistent plays outside of the core run producers.
While the financial commitment and long-term fit will ultimately determine whether a deal is made, both parties seem interested. If the Mariners are serious about utilizing their 2025 momentum, bringing back a star player who delivered at the right moments could be a great step forward.
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