BREAKING NEWSMLB trade: Mariners get Alex Colome, Denard Span in trade with Rays

In a significant early-season transaction, the Seattle Mariners bolstered both their bullpen and outfield by acquiring veteran outfielder Denard Span and right-handed closer Alex Colomé from the Tampa Bay Rays. This trade, which sent minor league right-handers Andrew Moore and Tommy Romero to Tampa Bay, signals the Mariners’ commitment to their playoff aspirations, even in the face of roster challenges.

The Mariners’ front office, led by General Manager Jerry Dipoto, made the move with the intention of addressing two critical areas of need: relief pitching and outfield depth. Colomé, a 2016 All-Star closer, is expected to play a vital role in stabilizing the Mariners’ bullpen, which had been heavily relied on during the season. Colomé brings an impressive track record, having led Major League Baseball with 47 saves in 2017  At the time of the trade, Colomé had notched 11 saves for the Rays and was proving his ability to handle high-leverage situations, something the Mariners were eager to add to their bullpen mix

Denard Span, meanwhile, provides the Mariners with a versatile outfield option. At the time of the trade, Span was hitting .238 with 28 RBIs in 48 games, offering a steady veteran presence. Span, a player with experience in both center and left field, was seen as a key piece in Seattle’s outfield rotation, especially with Dee Gordon moving back to second base to cover for the suspended Robinson Cano . The Mariners needed someone who could fill multiple roles in the outfield, and Span’s proven ability to handle various defensive assignments made him a perfect fit. Span, a longtime fixture in the league, was brought in to provide leadership as well as defensive stability.

The trade was also a financial win for Seattle. As part of the deal, the Mariners received cash considerations from Tampa Bay, which will help offset some of the financial obligations tied to Span’s $11 million salary. Span’s contract includes a $12 million team option for 2019, though the Mariners could choose to buy out the option for $4 million  This flexibility makes the deal appealing beyond just the immediate season.

For the Rays, this trade was part of a broader organizational strategy to continue rebuilding with younger talent. Andrew Moore, who has major league experience, and Tommy Romero, a promising prospect, represent future pitching depth for Tampa Bay, a team looking to develop young talent in the long term

Dipoto expressed his excitement about the deal, noting that it strengthened the Mariners without depleting their farm system significantly. “This trade makes us a more complete club in the present while also offering impact beyond this season,” Dipoto said in a statement . He emphasized that both Span and Colomé would fill critical roles on the team and help Seattle compete in the highly competitive American League West, where the Houston Astros and Los Angeles Angels also pose significant challenges.

The Mariners’ manager, Scott Servais, echoed Dipoto’s sentiments. Servais highlighted the resilience of the team, which had faced several setbacks, including Cano’s suspension and other key injuries, but remained firmly focused on reaching the playoffs. “This trade shows our commitment to winning,” Servais said. “We’ve had a lot thrown at us, but this organization is all-in on making a postseason run this year, and adding these guys will help us get there

From Tampa Bay’s perspective, the trade was more bittersweet. Span, a native of the Tampa Bay area, expressed disappointment at leaving the Rays but understood that the business of baseball often necessitates such moves. “It’s hard leaving home, but I’m excited about the opportunity in Seattle. They’re playing great baseball, and I’m looking forward to being part of a playoff race,” Span commented

For Seattle, the acquisition of Colomé and Span sends a clear message: the team is serious about contending this year. The Mariners were off to a strong start in the 2018 season, and this trade provides the additional depth and versatility they need to maintain their playoff push. By shoring up the bullpen and adding outfield flexibility, the Mariners have positioned themselves as strong contenders in the American League, where the competition for postseason spots is expected to be fierce.

Overall, this trade highlights the Mariners’ proactive approach to team building, with Dipoto and his staff taking aggressive steps to address their roster’s needs well ahead of the midseason trade deadline. For Seattle fans, this move is a signal that the team is fully committed to ending their 16-year playoff drought and making a deep run in October