As the 2025 Major League Baseball season gets underway, the Seattle Mariners are generating excitement with a mostly healthy and complete roster. Manager Dan Wilson is particularly pleased with the team’s condition heading into Opening Day, noting that despite a few minor setbacks, the squad is in excellent shape to begin their playoff push.
“This is the best we’ve felt heading into a season in a long time,” Wilson said. “Health is always a major factor in how a season plays out, and right now, we’re in a great spot.”
While injuries have often plagued the Mariners in previous seasons, the team has largely avoided significant issues leading up to this campaign. The most notable exception is relief pitcher Matt Brash, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery and will miss the season. Additionally, starting pitcher George Kirby is dealing with right shoulder inflammation and is expected to miss at least his first two starts. However, beyond those setbacks, the Mariners are operating with a full roster, giving Wilson and his coaching staff maximum flexibility.
Roster Stability and Key Adjustments
The Mariners’ infield setup has been adjusted to maximize performance. Jorge Polanco, who primarily played second base in previous seasons, is making the transition to third base. This shift allows Dylan Moore and Ryan Bliss to share responsibilities at second base. First base will be covered by Luke Raley and Rowdy Tellez, with Donovan Solano providing additional depth at the corners.
The outfield remains one of Seattle’s strengths, featuring All-Star Julio Rodríguez in center field, Randy Arozarena in left, and Victor Robles in right. This trio brings a mix of power, speed, and defensive prowess that should help the Mariners both offensively and defensively.
Seattle’s starting rotation will be anchored by Logan Gilbert, followed by Luis Castillo, Bryce Miller, and Bryan Woo. The team is hopeful that Kirby’s absence will be short-lived, as his return would solidify one of the best rotations in the American League.
Playoff Expectations and Season Outlook
Seattle enters the season with high expectations. FanGraphs gives the team a 61.4% chance of making the playoffs, while Baseball Prospectus is even more optimistic, projecting a 68.8% probability. The Mariners boast one of the strongest pitching staffs in baseball, complemented by a solid lineup featuring two superstars in Rodríguez and Arozarena.
The Mariners opened their season at home against the Oakland Athletics at T-Mobile Park. The series continues through the weekend before the team moves on to face the Detroit Tigers next week. The schedule remains tough early on, with matchups against the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers looming in the coming weeks.
As the season unfolds, Seattle’s primary focus will be on maintaining health and consistency. If they can do that, a return to the postseason is well within reach. Wilson remains confident that his team can make a deep run, especially with a full roster at his disposal to start the year. “If we stay healthy,” he said, “I like our chances.”