Report: Giants, Mariners join teams interested in Seiya Suzuki

The market for Japanese outfielder Seiya Suzuki is growing, with a group of West Coast teams now showing interest.

The San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, and other unnamed teams out west are targeting Suzuki, according to MLB Network's Jon Heyman.

San Francisco's projected starting outfield next season includes Mike Yastrzemski, LaMonte Wade Jr., and Steven Duggar. Darin Ruf and Austin Slater are also options.

Seattle is expected to utilize some outfield combination of Mitch Haniger, Kyle Lewis, Jarred Kelenic, Jake Fraley, and Taylor Trammell. The team also has top prospect Julio Rodriguez waiting in the wings.

Mariners general manager Jerry Dipoto has mentioned a desire to sign starting pitching and an impact bat following the work stoppage. Suzuki seemingly fits the bill of the latter.

Both clubs could also be looking at Suzuki as an infield option. The 27-year-old has experience at shortstop and third base in addition to his preferred position in right field.

Suzuki is one of the top remaining free agents on the open market after an impressive nine-year career overseas where he slashed .315/.414/.570 for the Hiroshima Carp of Nippon Professional Baseball. He hit .317/.433/.639 with 38 home runs, 26 doubles, and 88 RBIs in 2021.

The Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Toronto Blue Jays are also reportedly pursuing Suzuki.