Seattle Mariners Linked To Star Free Agent Pitcher

The Seattle Mariners made huge strides this season, including adding a rookie superstar to the lineup, trading for another ace pitcher in Luis Castillo, and making the playoffs for the first time in 20 years. But they're not resting on their laurels this offseason.

Mariners president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto says they'll be going after free agent Japanese pitching sensation Kodai Senga. 

Jerry Dipoto said he views Kodai Senga as an “impact pitcher” in @MLB. He confirmed the Mariners have done their due diligence on him and plan to contact his representatives at the appropriate time. @MLBNetwork @SeattleSports

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 8, 2022

MLB Insider Jon Morosi writes that Dipoto views Senga as being an “impact pitcher” in the major leagues. He added that the Mariners have done their due diligence on him and plan to contact Senga's representatives to make an offer. 

The Mariners have a superb top three in their starting rotation already, with Luis Castillo (2.99 ERA, 1.08 WHIP), 2021 Cy Young winner Robbie Ray (3.71 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 212 Ks) and Logan Gilbert (13-6, 3.20 ERA, 1.18 WHIP). Adding Senga would make them a formidable staff to face on a nightly basis.  

The 29-year-old Senga finished the 2022 season with a 1.94 ERA for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks of NPB, with a 156:49 K/BB ratio in 144 innings. He's a five-time Japan Series champion and two-time league strikeout champ. 

Photo: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports