The Seattle Mariners' bullpen could be the key to their success in the upcoming season. After falling just short of a World Series appearance, the team is looking to bolster its relief pitching, and the free agency market offers some intriguing options.
Last season, the Mariners were actively pursuing high-leverage relievers, even aiming for Minnesota Twins' closer Jhoan Duran, known for his incredible fastball. However, the Twins ultimately traded Duran to the Philadelphia Phillies, leaving the Mariners with only lefty Caleb Ferguson as a bullpen addition. This absence of a key high-leverage arm proved costly, as the team's bullpen was heavily taxed during the playoffs.
Now, as the Mariners prepare for the 2026 season, upgrading the bullpen remains a priority. While the team hasn't historically spent big in this area under President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto, their near-miss at the World Series might change that strategy. Let's dive into some top arms the Mariners could target:
Ryan Helsley: A two-time All-Star, Helsley was a sought-after reliever at the trade deadline. From 2022-2024, he ranked second among qualified relievers in fWAR (5.7), third in ERA (1.83), and eighth in strikeout rate (34.6%). Although he struggled with the Mets after a trade, his track record makes him a valuable asset. Helsley's arsenal includes a fastball averaging 99.3 mph, a hard slider, a curveball, and a cutter.
Devin Williams: Another star reliever, Williams, had a down year in 2025. He previously led qualified bullpen arms with a 1.66 ERA and a 39.5% strikeout rate from 2022-2024 with Milwaukee. Despite a higher ERA (4.79) with the Yankees in 2025, his 37.7% whiff rate suggests some bad luck. Williams' changeup is a standout pitch that could diversify the Mariners' slider-heavy bullpen. He also throws a 94 mph fastball and a cutter.
Pete Fairbanks: Fairbanks is available after Tampa Bay declined his $11 million option for 2026. The 31-year-old has been quietly effective, with a 2.83 ERA and a 1.04 WHIP over 60.1 innings this year. His fastball averages 97.3 mph, complemented by a slider, changeup, and cutter.
Danny Coulombe: Coulombe experienced struggles after a trade, but he's been one of the best left-handed relievers when healthy. He'd bring a different look to the bullpen, relying on his 85 mph cutter and featuring a variety of other pitches.
Luke Weaver: Weaver, formerly with the Mariners, has established himself as a reliable bullpen option. Over the past two seasons, he has a 3.21 ERA, a 0.97 WHIP, and a 29.5% strikeout rate. His fastball sits at 95 mph, and his changeup is particularly effective, with batters hitting just .129 against it this season.
And this is the part most people miss... Other names to watch include LHP Gregory Soto, RHP Phil Maton, RHP Shawn Armstrong, LHP Holby Milner, and RHP Emilio Pagán.
But here's where it gets controversial... Investing in the bullpen can be a gamble. Do you think the Mariners should prioritize spending on relief pitching, or are there other areas of the team that need more attention? What do you think about the relievers mentioned? Share your thoughts in the comments!
