The Seattle Mariners are reportedly interested in adding a decorated veteran outfielder as they prepare for a potentially significant roster shakeup this offseason.
With All-Star Randy Arozarena’s future in Seattle uncertain, the Mariners have shown interest in another established player who could help address one of the organization’s biggest priorities.
According to MLB Network insider Jon Morosi, Seattle has expressed interest in former Chicago Cubs outfielder Ian Happ, a four-time Gold Glove winner who is currently available in free agency.
Morosi reported the interest on November 11, pointing to Happ’s defensive accomplishments and his familiarity with newly hired Mariners manager Jason Kanzler as reasons the pairing could make sense.
Although there is no indication that an agreement is imminent, Happ could give Seattle an experienced replacement for Arozarena while addressing the team’s desire to improve defensively.
Mariners Reportedly Interested in Four-Time Gold Glove Winner Ian Happ
Happ spent the first 10 seasons of his major-league career with Chicago, establishing himself as a reliable outfielder with a combination of power and defensive ability.
The 32-year-old won four consecutive National League Gold Gloves from 2022 through 2025 and was a finalist for the award again in 2026.
His defensive accomplishments are especially relevant to Seattle’s offseason plans.
Mariners president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto has identified improving the team’s defense as a major priority.
Happ could help the organization accomplish that goal, particularly in left field, where Arozarena spent much of the 2026 season.
Baseball Savant ranked his throwing-arm value in the 96th percentile, highlighting an area where he could make an immediate impact.
There is also a connection between Happ and Seattle’s new manager.
Kanzler spent the previous three seasons as the Cubs’ director of player development before joining the Mariners earlier this month.
Morosi specifically identified that familiarity as another reason Happ could appeal to Seattle.
Ian Happ Could Help Mariners Replace Randy Arozarena
Seattle’s interest in Happ comes amid significant uncertainty surrounding its outfield.
Star outfielder Randy Arozarena is likely to decline his $23.15 million qualifying offer and seek a longer-term contract.
If Arozarena leaves, Seattle would need to replace a player who hit .281 with 26 home runs and 79 RBIs last season.
Happ wouldn’t necessarily provide the same offensive production, but he could offer a different combination of skills.
The switch-hitting outfielder batted .218 with 24 home runs, 68 RBIs, and a .738 OPS in 156 games for Chicago in 2026.
Those numbers represented a disappointing season by his standards, although his power remained relatively consistent.
Happ has hit at least 21 home runs in four consecutive seasons, giving Seattle another potential source of production in its lineup.
Interestingly, the Mariners have also been connected to another former Cubs outfielder, Seiya Suzuki.
More recently, The Seattle Times reported that the Mariners have genuine interest in Suzuki, suggesting the organization is considering multiple options to reshape its outfield.
Happ would offer a different profile, with his extensive experience in left field and defensive accolades potentially making him a particularly straightforward replacement for Arozarena.
For now, Morosi’s report confirms Seattle’s interest in Happ, although whether that leads to contract negotiations remains to be seen.
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