Report: Mariners showing serious interest in Napoli

After adding a number of complementary pieces to his roster early this offseason, Seattle Mariners general manager Jerry Dipoto has his eyes on adding a middle-of-the-order bat.

Linked to free-agent Mike Napoli earlier this month, the Mariners are now reportedly among several teams giving "serious competition" for the services of the first baseman, according to Jim Bowden of ESPN.

Napoli hit .239/.335/.465 with 22 doubles and a career-high 34 home runs, 101 RBIs, and 194 strikeouts in 150 games last season with the Cleveland Indians.

Despite leading the club in home runs and RBIs, the Indians opted not to extend a qualifying offer, meaning the Mariners could sign him without surrendering a draft pick.

With Adam Lind and Dae-Ho Lee departing to free agency, the Mariners have an opening at first base.