Seattle Mariners sign AJ Pollock to add a bat to their outfield. According to ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan, Pollock has signed a one-year, $7 million contract. He will be joining his fourth team when he begins his 12th season this year.
Right-Handed Outfielder
The Mariners said their goal this offseason was to add a right-handed hitting outfielder with experience and some power in his bat. Overall, Pollock has 140 home runs, 470 RBIs, and 122 steals with a .276 batting average. Although he has been primarily a centerfielder in his career, he has played both corner outfield spots and is seen as a platoon for all three spots.
Down Year
Pollock had a down year in 2022, some of which can be attributed to hamstring issues that troubled him much of the year. In 138 games with Chicago White Sox, he hit only .245 with 98 strikeouts, the second-lowest of his career for both. However, his on-base and slugging percentages were the lowest of his career.
Leadership
The Mariners signing AJ Pollock may not be a flashy top-story signing, but it is still a decent deal for the Mariners. He is a well-liked player with a veteran presence. Pollack has played on championship-caliber teams and can be a mentor to a young Mariners team that includes fellow outfielders Jarred Kelenic and Julio Rodríguez, the AL Rookie of the Year.
Kelenic has all the tools to be an impact MLB player. His arm and his speed give him the opportunity to play the outfield. He has the power to be an elite home run hitter; he just needs the experience of dealing with what it means to be an MLB player. Pollock should provide a stable force to rely on as he works his way through.
Change of Scenery
The Mariners are hoping a change of scenery and playing on the west coast again will provoke a rebound season for him. He is not expected to play in 138 games again but is ready to be a platoon player. Pollock did do one thing well last season, hit against left-handed pitching. In 133 plate appearances last season, he put up some above-average numbers hitting .286 with 11 home runs. We know the AL West is loaded with left-handed pitchers. Every opposing team in Seattle’s division has at least two southpaws in their rotation. And the Mariners have struggled greatly against them for the last two seasons.
Another Playoff Run
The Mariners had a 90 and 72 record last season. They finished second in the AL West and made the playoffs for the first time since 2001. The 2023 team is filled with young talent. To a team setting its sights on being in the World Series, the addition of a veteran hitter like Pollack could make the difference in 2023. When the Mariners sign Pollock, they bring depth and leadership along with high character and his baseball IQ. His experience and steady leadership on the field and in the clubhouse can only be an asset to the young team.
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