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Mariners Shake Up Bullpen: Ferguson Signs, Ford Traded

12/17/2025

Summary

Mariners Strengthen Bullpen

The Seattle Mariners signed left-handed reliever Caleb Ferguson to the Cincinnati Reds after a disappointing playoff performance.
Ferguson, acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates, struggled in the postseason, allowing five earned runs in 2 2/3 innings.
The Mariners traded top catching prospect Harry Ford to the Washington Nationals for hard-throwing reliever Jose A. Ferrer to strengthen their bullpen.

Summary

Mariners Pursue Trades

The Seattle Mariners are pursuing trades for Ketel Marte (infielder) and Brendan Donovan (infielder).
The Mariners lost Jorge Polanco to the Mets, shaping their trade strategy.
Insiders say the Mariners would trade Jurrangelo Cijntje, a first-round pick, to meet the Diamondbacks' need for starting pitching.
However, Cijntje's limited experience may not satisfy the Diamondbacks' demand for talent.
Brendan Donovan appears more feasible as the Cardinals rebuild, increasing the Mariners' options.

History

Historical Context

Major League Baseball expanded in 1998 by adding the Arizona Diamondbacks and Tampa Bay Devil Rays, increasing the league to 30 teams. This followed a competitive bidding process initiated in 1994, reflecting the league's growth strategy. The expansion reshaped team dynamics, prompting aggressive trades, such as the Seattle Mariners' acquisition of top prospects to enhance their playoff chances amid evolving competitive strategies.

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Mariners Strengthen Bullpen

The Seattle Mariners signed left-handed reliever Caleb Ferguson to the Cincinnati Reds after a disappointing playoff performance.
Ferguson, acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates, struggled in the postseason, allowing five earned runs in 2 2/3 innings.
The Mariners traded top catching prospect Harry Ford to the Washington Nationals for hard-throwing reliever Jose A. Ferrer to strengthen their bullpen.

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