Mariners receive a boost as Donovan Solano arrives in Peoria

The Mariners received some positive news on Saturday, with Donovan Solano finally arriving at camp after dealing with some visa issues.

As Seattle Mariners players reported to camp in Peoria, one of their main offseason signings was conspicuous by his absence. More specifically Donovan Solano, who was unable to join his new teammates in spring training due to dealing with visa issues.

Fortunately for everyone concerned, any issues about Solano’s non-attendance were resolved on Saturday. As confirmed by Adam Jude of The Seattle Times, the 37-year-old finally arrived in the Mariners’ clubhouse at the Peoria Sports Complex, ready to get acquainted with the rest of the roster.

Solano was one of the few prominent moves by the Mariners during this past offseason, with him being signed to a one-year deal worth $3.5 million and with the potential to earn up to another $1 million in performance bonuses for plate appearances. There is some thinking, that the Colombia native could prove to be a bargain for the Mariners.

Donovan Solano provides versatility for the Mariners

With the Mariners needing infield help, Solano is initially projected to be part of a platoon system at first base, along with Luke Raley. For what it’s worth however, most of his Major League experience has come at second base, with him also having seen playing time at third base. (He has even appeared in 42 games at short stop during his 11 years in the Majors.)

The reality though, is that Solano is just a depth piece who adds versatility when it comes to the defensive side. Where the Mariners will be hoping he can really add value is at the plate, for a team which struggled offensively for the majority of last season.

The 2020 Silver Slugger Award winner has a career .279/.335/.381 slash line and .716 OPS. He hit above his career averages last season as per a .286/.343/.417 slash line and .760 OPS, with him being particularly effective against lefties, with a .302/.373/.443 slash line and .816 OPS.

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Consistent contact but not much power

It should be noted that as solid as Solano was last season in San Diego with the Padres, his ability to make contact with the ball is compromised by the lack of pop in his bat. In this respect, it is telling that the eight home runs he produced in 2024 were a career high.

Another aspect to consider, is how much Solano will play and/or be available, as per the 96 games he played for the Padres last year. Although it is worth adding that just a season earlier he did appear in a career high 134 games, with him also producing a career-best 1.7 WAR in his one campaign with the Minnesota Twins.

Main photo credit: Mariners media

What kind of season are you predicting for Solano with the Mariners in 2025? What gives you reason for hope and what — if anything — concerns you about the infielder? Let us know in the comments section below.