Breaking: Seattle Mariners closing in on deal to sign former $50 million two-time All-Star

A well-known MLB insider says the Seattle Mariners may be interested in acquiring a two-time All-Star from the New York Mets before the trade deadline. However, that player is not the slugger Pete Alonso.

The Mariners are currently leading the American League West rankings and have had a strong recent performance. Following a four-game losing run on an East Coast road trip, Seattle has won nine of their previous 12 games, transforming from a team trying to stay above.500 to the division’s cream of the crop as June begins.

Furthermore, they boast one of the best pitching staffs in the AL, despite George Kirby’s struggles in the first two months of the season. That is why there has been conjecture that if they make any trades before the July 30 trade deadline, they will be to strengthen the batting order.

In recent weeks, there have been rumors that the Mariners are interested in acquiring New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso. The three-time All-Star is likely to be available before the deadline, but a new report on Thursday indicated that Seattle may pursue a different homegrown Mets veteran in a deal.

• Jeff McNeil stats (2024): .227 AVG, .296 OBP, .320 SLG, 3 HR, 14 RBI, 20 R

“Jeff McNeil’s value is zero right now, which is sad because a change of scenery seems like a good idea. According to Jon Heyman, an MLB source for the New York Post, the Mariners have long had a soft spot for him. In a recent piece, Heyman speculated that New York may trade him in the coming weeks.

McNeil was named an All-Star for the second time two years ago, after winning the 2022 National League hitting title with a.326 average. However, he has regressed and is in a bad slump to begin the 2024 season. But if he can work out his faults, he is a talented hitter who adds value on defense because he can play second and third base, as well as the corner outfield positions.

McNeil has two years and over $30 million guaranteed before a $15.7 million club option in 2027.