Given the Randy Arozarena-shaped hole in the starting lineup, the Seattle Mariners need to add at least one impact hitter this winter. They can conceivably do so via free agency, but the smarter money is on the trade market.
Take it from Adam Jude of The Seattle Times, who notes that the Mariners should not be expected to pluck a big bat from the open market. And thus, that "the trade route is again the likely avenue to find an offensive upgrade."
To this end, we've covered how the Mariners' advantages include both major league starting pitching and prospect talent as trade capital, as well as the ability to add between $30 and $40 million to their 2027 payroll. And no, we haven't been shy about how badly we want the team to leverage these things in an all-out pursuit of Cincinnati Reds superstar Elly De La Cruz.
Now, an ally has emerged. Another guy campaigning for an EDLC trade is none other than Reds legend Joey Votto, who laid out a case for the team to cash in the 24-year-old shortstop before he reaches free agency following the 2029 season.
"I would trade Elly for as many prospects as possible to start," the 2010 NL MVP said on the Foul Territory podcast last week. "Elly's go...