Mariners get All-Star 2B Adam Frazier for prospects in trade with Padres

With the MLB lockout date rapidly approaching, the Mariners have made their first move of the offseason, acquiring second baseman Adam Frazier from the San Diego Padres in exchange for two prospects, left-handed reliever Ray Kerr and outfielder Corey Rosier, on Saturday morning.

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If the name sounds familiar, it’s because Frazier, who was an All-Star for the Pirates in 2021, was a target of Mariners general manager Jerry Dipoto at the July trade deadline but ultimately went to the Padres.

The left-handed hitter brings versatility in that he can also play left field, and Frazier possesses tremendous contact skills that Dipoto highly values. While he hit just five home runs in 2021, Frazier ranked in the 98th percentile in strikeout and whiff percentage last season while slashing .305/.368/.411 (.779 OPS) and recording a 3.5 fWAR.

MLB Trade Rumors estimates that Frazier, who will turn 30 on Dec. 14, will earn $7.2 million in 2021, which will be his final year of arbitration eligibility.

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While not the centerpiece acquisition Mariners fans are hoping to see this winter, the Frazier move is a start, and one that appears to be more for the short-term as he will become a free agent at the end of the 2022 season. For the moment he slots into second base, an upgrade over Abraham Toro, who is still learning the position. Should Dipoto land one of the prime infield free agents, Frazier could become a utility player and likely see more action as part of an outfield/designated hitter rotation.

In return from the Mariners, the Padres acquire 12 years of club control in the duo of Kerr, who was recently added to the Mariners’ 40-man roster, and Rosier, a 2021 12th-round pick. While not yet a Baseball America top 30 organizational prospect, the hard-throwing Kerr, 27, was expected to be added to the list after a breakout 2022 season.

Up and Adam!

We have acquired INF/OF @A_Fraz12 from San Diego in exchange for MiLB LHP Ray Kerr and OF Corey Rosier. #SeaUsRise pic.twitter.com/Mu7mNMuirH

— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) November 27, 2021

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