Seth Smith Trade Rumor Update

Earlier today, Tim Richer wrote about the Seattle Mariners having strong interest in San Diego Padres’ outfielder Seth Smith. At the time, not much information was available as to how close the teams were to consummating a deal, but now according to MLB Trade Rumors, a deal is nearly complete between the two teams. According to the report, Shanon Drayer of 710AM ESPN in Seattle is reporting that the Padres will send Smith to Seattle in exchange for minor leaguer Brandon Maurer, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today. 

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If Smith is dealt, A.J. Preller has unloaded the first of a plethora of outfielders on the Padres’ 25-man roster. Smith had a triple slash line of .266/.367/.440 in 2014, and proved to be the Friars most consistent hitter in a season that was historically bad for the franchise. The Mariners have been looking for outfield help, even after signing free agent Nelson Cruz to help fortify the M’s lineup to go along with Robinson Cano and Corey Seager. Smith would most likely platoon in the outfield with Justin Ruggiano, who was acquired earlier in the off-season.

Maurer, 24, has been used both in the rotation and out of the bullpen in the Mariners minor league system. According to the report, he has a very good fastball, in the 94.4 mph range, but has seen better results coming out of the bullpen than when he starts. When and if the trade is completed, the report states that Maurer would most likely be added to the mix to compete for the Padres’ fifth starter job come spring training.