Report: Mariners considering Reds' Bruce, Cozart
With the Seattle Mariners four games back of the final wild-card spot in the American League playoff race, general manager Jerry Dipoto may dive into the market for some new pieces prior to the Aug. 1 non-waiver trade deadline and he's eyeing a couple of players from the Cincinnati Reds as possible additions.
The Mariners have inquired with Cincinnati about shortstop Zack Cozart and and outfielder Jay Bruce, reports ESPN's Jayson Stark.
Stark writes Cozart is not a perfect fit for the club with Ketel Marte potentially returning from mononucleosis in early August, although the Reds shortstop has put up a much stronger offensive numbers this season.
| PLAYER | PA | H | HR | RBI | OPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zack Cozart | 387 | 94 | 15 | 41 | .781 |
| Ketel Marte | 300 | 77 | 1 | 19 | .657 |
Bruce, on the other hand, has been a highly sought-after piece on the trade market and as of July 26, the Reds were reportedly discussing him with at least four teams.
Cincinnati is reportedly seeking a top prospect for the services of the 29-year-old Bruce, who is in the midst of a career year, leading the NL in RBIs with 79 to go along with 25 home runs and a 133 OPS+.
If Seattle were to acquire the slugger, he would almost certainly slot into the starting outfield.
Bruce is owed the remainder of his $12.5-million salary for the 2016 season and has a $13-million team option for 2017.
Cozart is earning $2.925 million in 2016 and is arbitration eligible for next season. He'll hit free agency for the first time in 2018.