Former MLB Executive Considers Potential Mariners-Rockies Trade
The Colorado Rockies, currently struggling with a record 20 games below .500, are likely to see other teams showing interest in their veteran players as the season progresses. One notable trade candidate is Ryan McMahon, who is performing well enough to potentially earn his first All-Star selection. Known for his solid defense at third base and ability to hit over 20 home runs per season, McMahon’s value is slightly offset by his strikeout rate, though he compensates with a decent walk rate to maintain a respectable on-base percentage.
General Manager Bill Schmidt has not yet indicated if he will entertain offers for McMahon. On May 29, Jon Morosi of MLB Network reported that the Toronto Blue Jays were interested in the third baseman. Another team that might pursue McMahon is the Seattle Mariners, who lead the American League West but could use a boost in their offense.
Ryan McMahon to the Mariners?
McMahon is under contract for another three and a half seasons, with salaries of $12 million for this year and next, and $16 million annually for 2026-27. This contract might make the Rockies hesitant to trade him, as they have historically retained players like Trevor Story and Jon Gray when they were nearing free agency.
Former MLB executive Jim Bowden, writing for The Athletic, proposed a trade in which the Mariners would acquire McMahon in exchange for right-handed pitcher Emerson Hancock and infielder Michael Arroyo.
**Proposed Trade:**
– **Mariners acquire:** 3B Ryan McMahon
– **Rockies acquire:** RHP Emerson Hancock, INF Michael Arroyo
Bowden suggests that McMahon, who is currently hitting .268/.344/.458 with 12 home runs and 37 RBIs while providing near-average defense at third base, would be a valuable addition to the Mariners’ lineup. McMahon also offers positional flexibility, being able to play first, second, or third base, which is a trait highly valued by the Mariners. His power and on-base ability would address the Mariners’ need, as they rank 25th in the majors in OPS. The Mariners would control McMahon through 2027 under his existing six-year, $79-million contract signed before the 2022 season.
In return, the Rockies would gain prospects who could contribute immediately. Hancock, despite a 4.79 ERA over eight major league starts, has shown promise with a 2.17 ERA in five Triple-A starts this season. Arroyo, a 19-year-old middle infielder, has a promising mix of power and speed, currently hitting .266/.392/.489 with 11 home runs and eight stolen bases in Low-A Modesto.
If the Rockies Don’t Trade McMahon
If McMahon remains with the Rockies, other players like second baseman Brendan Rodgers and catchers Elias Díaz and Jacob Stallings might be considered for trades, though their return value would likely be lower. Trading McMahon could yield a more substantial prospect package, akin to Bowden’s proposal, which could benefit the Rockies more than deals involving Díaz, Stallings, or Rodgers.
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