3 Trades The Seattle Mariners Could Make Before The Deadline

The Seattle Mariners are currently in a weird spot, not far enough out of things where a hot streak wouldn't propel them back into contention, but not close enough to the front of the American League Wild Card(s) logjam to consider themselves a traditional buyer. So with that in mind, what exactly could the Mariners have planned? Here's our list of 3 Trades The Seattle Mariners Could Make Before The Deadline.

1. Trade lower-tier prospects to Miami Marlins for Ichiro

Wouldn't this be the feel-good story of the year (or decade)? Ichiro is 41 years old, yet he still has that signature slap and dash speed and remains a credible defensive presence. He's at least a heck of a part-time player to slot onto the bench, and the potential publicity/attendance boost will be enough to raise a few eyebrow and half-smiles in the Seattle front office.

2. Trade lower-to-mid tier prospects to Atlanta Braves for C AJ Pierzynski

The Seattle Mariners are reportedly closing in on a deal for a catch, with the current smokescreen indicating that said backstop will not be the Braves' AJ Pierzynski. Don't be fooled. Rumor has it that the preliminary discussions between the Braves and Mariners bore more fruit than either team is letting on. That tactic can benefit both the M's and Braves, allowing both to survey their options unfettered before coming together on an agreement.

3. Trade P Hisashi Iwakuma to New York Yankees for low-to-mid tier prospects

While the Yankees' farm system isn't exactly teeming with available blue chip prospects ready to make the jump to The Show, it's not nearly as barren as it used to be. The Mariners' continued struggles have started the rumor mill churning about multiple deals for Seattle's MLB cache of arms. Iwakuma would fit the current profile of Yankees GM Brian Cashman -- a potential placeholder arm who can eat innings while not bankrupting New York's apparent organizational rethink (youth influx, riding out weighty veteran contracts) like a Cole Hamels would.

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Related Topics: Seattle Mariners, Hisashi Iwakuma, Mariners Trade Rumors, MLB Trade Deadline, MLB