Mariners Podcast: Is OF Mitch Haniger a trade deadline candidate?

It’s time for the first Mariners Podcast of the 2021 season with 710 ESPN Seattle Mariners insider Shannon Drayer and James “Boy Howdy” Osborn.

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Not only was there plenty for the two to discuss in regards to the 2021 Mariners, but it was the first in-person podcast the duo has recorded in more than a year!

Entering Friday, the Mariners sit at an even .500 mark with a 29-29 record, and the young team has had its moments this year both good and bad, which Shannon and Howdy discuss.

Also on the docket for the podcast are:

• A closer look at the future of star outfielder Mitch Haniger, who is off to a great start after missing all of 2020 and most of 2019. Entering Friday, Haniger has been Seattle’s best hitter, slashing .276/.316/.539 with 14 home runs and 37 RBIs. With Haniger being signed only through 2022 and the Mariners’ farm system being loaded with young talent in the outfield, what does Haniger’s future in Seattle look like? Is he a trade chip? Or would the team be better off keeping him long-term?

• Shannon breaks down the positive developments of J.P. Crawford and Justin Dunn and explores what the rest of the season will tell the Mariners about what they need to add heading into 2022.

• Howdy shares his concerns with the early struggles of Mariners rookies as they debut from the minor leagues while Shannon explains why she believes there’s a good reason for that happening.

• And of course, there’s some talk about rookie outfielder Jarred Kelenic, who is struggling at the plate to start his MLB career.

Listen to the full podcast at this link, or use the player below to listen.

Follow Shannon Drayer and James “Boy Howdy” Osborn on Twitter.

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