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Dexter Fowler opts out: 5 potential landing spots

By Joshua Sadlock

Oct 29, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) hits a solo home run against the Cleveland Indians during the eighth inning in game four of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) hits a solo home run against the Cleveland Indians during the eighth inning in game four of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jun 9, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners right fielder Nelson Cruz (23) cannot reach a two-run home run hit by Cleveland Indians center fielder Tyler Naquin (not pictured) during the eighth inning to put the Indians up 4-2 at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 9, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners right fielder Nelson Cruz (23) cannot reach a two-run home run hit by Cleveland Indians center fielder Tyler Naquin (not pictured) during the eighth inning to put the Indians up 4-2 at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Seattle Mariners

Jerry DiPoto is molding the Seattle Mariners into an interesting blend of speed and defense, so one would have to imagine that he wants nothing to do with 36-year-old Nelson Cruz continuing to patrol right field in spacious Safeco Park. Cruz’s outfield starts were down to 48 in 2016, but that’s still 48 too many.

Assuming Cruz is not going to see any playing time in the outfield in 2017, the Mariners have an underwhelming group to fall back on, led by Seth Smith and Ben Gamel. A better option is needed if the Mariners are going to get over the hump after another season outside of the playoffs. Seattle very nearly made the postseason for the first time since 2001, but ultimately fell several games short.

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Fowler fits in nicely with the current Seattle lineup. He would provide an upgrade at the leadoff spot, and better defense in right field with Leonys Martin continuing to play a competent center field. This team came painfully close to breaking out in 2016, and the All-Star trio of Kyle Seager, Robinson Cano, and Cruz will put them in position to contend again in 2017. DiPoto just needs one more offensive weapon to put his team over the hump.

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