While most of the conversation is understandably on Colt Emerson and Kade Anderson, let's not forget about Michael Arroyo, either.
At the major league level, the current conversations surrounding the Seattle Mariners center on the struggles of Cal Raleigh and the injury issues in the bullpen.
At the minor league level, the current conversations center on top prospects Colt Emerson and Kade Anderson, and understandably so given their prospect rankings, high ceilings and possible ability to contribute in 2026.
However, we should not forget about Top 100 prospect Michael Arroyo, who is currently playing at Double-A Arkansas.
Recently ranked in the Top 100 by Baseball America, the 21-year-old Arroyo is out to a .254 start for the Travelers while playing his home games in a true pitchers park. As of this posting, he has three home runs, 17 RBIs and five stolen bases. He hit a leadoff homer in Tuesday's afternoon contest.
If it was only about offense, Arroyo could have a case to help the scuffling Mariners right now. His biggest issue is on the defensive side of the ball, where he's not regarded as a solid second baseman.
As a result of that - and trying to find a path for him to the big leagues sooner - the Mariners have started experimenting with him in left field.
He's played 14 games in left field, including Tuesday, compared to 17 at second base. He made a phenomenal catch over his shoulder in that contest after hitting his home run.
The path forward for Arroyo
--If Arroyo can become a successful infielder, his best chance probably lies at third base. The Mariners project to have Cole Young at second base and Emerson at shortstop, making third available.
In that case, Brendan Donovan would likely move to left and take over for Randy Arozarena, who is a free agent at the end of this season.
--If Arroyo can't maintain an infield spot, then Donovan can stick at third, leaving Arroyo with an ability to play left field in wake of Arozarena's probable departure.
--As for 2026? The Mariners could use a right-handed hitting utility bat. Perhaps Arroyo can serve that purpose, though the team may not want to do that if he's not getting consistent playing time.
Also of note
The Mariners will play the Astros on Tuesday night at 5:10 p.m. PT.
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