The Mariners’ roster is being shaken by two players who made it onto the Opening Day roster and two who were cut in spring training shocks. Who is on the outside looking in, and which players have earned their place on Opening Day?
Spring training is always full of surprises. Some players start hot, while others struggle out of the gate. For the Seattle Mariners, this spring has been no different.
It takes time for the dust to settle before a team can determine who has earned a spot on the Opening Day roster and who might need more time in the minors, or even a fresh start elsewhere. Preseason roster projections often go out the window as unexpected performances shake things up.
With standout performances and some disappointing showings, roster decisions are beginning to take shape. Let’s take a look at two fringe players who have likely secured their spot with the Mariners, and two who may have played their way out.
2 Mariners who have played their way onto the Opening Day roster
Coming into spring training, Ryan Bliss was seen as a challenger for the Mariners’ role at second base, potentially pushing Dylan Moore for playing time. While his potential has always been intriguing, Bliss entered camp as an unproven major leaguer, having logged just 33 games at the highest level. But so far this spring, he’s done nothing but answer the call.
Bliss is hitting .350 with seven hits in 20 at-bats. While he hasn’t homered yet, he does have some sneaky pop in his bat. More importantly, he’s forming a tandem with shortstop J.P. Crawford, showcasing his defensive range and reliability. His ability to handle second base with confidence has Mariners coaches excited for the season.
If his production continues, Bliss could become the Mariners’ everyday second baseman in 2025. And the best part? His emergence doesn’t push Moore out of the picture. Instead, it allows the Mariners to use the 2024 Gold Glover in the super-utility role he has thrived in, maximizing roster flexibility.
