CJ Gillman becomes Seattle’s first new coach after a sweeping overhaul that saw Seitzer and three other assistants, plus manager Dan Wilson, exit. The club hasn’t even named a new skipper yet, though Joe Espada and Jason Kanzler are the leading candidates.
The Mariners’ bats have struggled for years, a trend that lingered during Gillman’s earlier stint. That 113 wRC+ under Seitzer proved a balanced lineup can shine. Arozarena should leave as a free agent, taking much of the 2026 offensive load with him.
Rodriguez, Naylor and especially Raleigh posted lower outputs than in 2025, so reviving that core is essential. Gillman’s work with Seattle’s farm system could be a boost, given prospects like Colt Emerson, Cole Young, Lazaro Montes and Michael Arroyo are expected to contribute. Can Gillman spark the offense before Arozarena departs?