The Seattle Mariners have been making roster adjustments as they finalize their lineup for the upcoming Major League Baseball (MLB) season. One of their latest moves involves optioning reserve outfielder Dominic Canzone and infielder Austin Shenton to Triple-A Tacoma. This decision reflects the Mariners’ commitment to refining their 26-man roster before Opening Day.
Roster Moves and Their Impact
Canzone, who was acquired by the Mariners in a midseason trade with the Arizona Diamondbacks last year, had been competing for a spot in Seattle’s outfield. Known for his left-handed power and ability to play multiple outfield positions, Canzone showed promise but ultimately did not make the final cut. Despite flashes of offensive potential in spring training, he struggled with consistency at the plate, leading to the decision to send him down for further development.
Shenton, a versatile infielder, has also been optioned to Tacoma. A local product from Bellingham, Washington, Shenton was drafted by the Mariners in 2019 and has worked his way through the minor league system. He’s known for his strong plate discipline and contact-hitting ability. While he performed well during spring training, the Mariners appear to favor more experienced options for the infield bench role.
Other Recent Moves
Earlier in the week, the Mariners also optioned first baseman Tyler Locklear to Triple-A. Locklear, a 24-year-old slugger who was a second-round draft pick in 2022, had an impressive showing in camp. He is known for his power-hitting and defensive versatility at both first and third base. However, Seattle’s front office wants him to work on reducing his strikeout rate before he is given an everyday role in the majors.
These roster decisions highlight the Mariners’ depth and the tough choices they face as they try to put together a competitive roster. While Canzone, Shenton, and Locklear will begin the season in Tacoma, they will likely be among the first players called up should injuries or underperformance affect the major league roster.
Mariners’ Opening Day Plans
With these moves, the Mariners’ roster is coming into focus as they prepare for Opening Day. The team is set to face the Milwaukee Brewers on March 23, 2025, in a spring training matchup before kicking off the regular season against the Oakland Athletics on March 27 at T-Mobile Park.
Seattle’s front office and coaching staff are banking on a strong mix of veteran leadership and young talent to compete in the American League West. The team’s core includes stars like Julio Rodríguez, J.P. Crawford, and newly acquired players looking to make an impact.
Looking Ahead
While being sent to Triple-A is never the goal for players like Canzone, Shenton, and Locklear, it provides an opportunity for them to refine their skills and stay ready for a potential call-up. If they perform well in Tacoma, they could quickly find themselves back in the big leagues contributing to a Mariners team that has postseason aspirations.
The Mariners’ roster shuffle is far from over, and fans can expect more moves as the season progresses.