Rival clubs use the stiller part of the off-season to add some versatile depth, and that is exactly what the Seattle Mariners did as they entered into a minor league contract with former Cleveland Guardians infielder Will Wilson on Saturday. The relocation makes the organization deeper and provides Wilson a second chance to demonstrate that he is at a major league level after a difficult start in the big leagues.
Will Wilson’s journey and recent performance
In 2025, Wilson had his first experiences in the major leagues with the Cleveland Guardians and featured mostly at second and third base. His numbers in MLB were also relatively low because he batted with an average of .192 on 78 at-bats and had four doubles and two steals. Although the play was restricted, Wilson got a good experience regarding pitching against the majors in his first season.
Wilson entered professional baseball with high expectations because the Los Angeles Angels selected him with the 15th pick in the 2019 MLB Draft from North Carolina State. Most of his minor league career was while in the system of the San Francisco Giants prior to joining the Cleveland in 2025. Wilson was more offensive-consistent at Triple-A Columbus, where he batted as low as .246 and exhibited a .760 OPS by providing 11 home runs, 12 doubles, and two triples in 70 games.
Opportunity and roster fit in Seattle
Wilson will come into spring training as a long shot to make the Opening Day roster of the Mariners. But the present lack of depth at second and third base in Seattle creates a potential weakness. In case Wilson leaves a good impression in his defense. He improves offensively; he may be included in the early-season plans as the organization tests long-term solutions in those positions.
To Wilson, the deal is a significant chance to get a fresh start in terms of a meaningful opportunity. Having positional flexibility, a previous top-prospect pedigree, and a proven Triple-A producer, he now has an opportunity to earn his way back to being considered by a major league. Should he accept the opportunity, Seattle could gain a low-risk addition who will play a key depth role in 2026.