The Seattle Mariners just made a power move in the competitive world of Major League Baseball, where careers can rise and fall faster than a 98-mph fastball. Their move? Especially considering the astounding $15.5 million they still owe former All-Star outfielder Mitch Haniger for the 2025 season. Releasing him cuts both deeply, figuratively, and practically. Let that soak in. They are paying him not to participate. Though business is different, baseball is cruel—even more frigid.
Haniger started his adventure with the Mariners in 2017 after being signed by the Arizona Diamondbacks. He established himself right away with a strong mix of power and speed. With a .285 batting average with 26 home runs and 93 RBI, his breakout year in 2018 got him nominated for an All-Star. Both fans and experts saw a bright future for the right fielder.
However, injuries that have sporadically sidelined Haniger have dogged his career. A burst testicle caused a protracted absence in 2019; later seasons saw him struggling with various conditions, including back problems and oblique strains. This year, there’s another major setback for him. “The Mariners have released Mitch Haniger,” Ryan Divish of the Seattle Times reported. “The veteran outfielder/designated hitter hasn’t played since the first week of [March] due to left shoulder soreness. They owe him $15.5 million for this season.”
There were several reasons behind the Mariners’ decision to part ways with Haniger. With .208/.286/.334 slash line across 121 games, including 12 home runs and 44 RBIs, Haniger’s performance slumped during the 2024 season. His difficulties persisted throughout spring training in 2025, where he managed only a .167 batting average over seven games. Complicating matters further, a shoulder injury had sidelined him since early March. Notwithstanding the financial consequences of his $15.5 million pay for the 2025 season, the Mariners decided to let him go, given these obstacles and the team’s urgent need for offensive improvement.
Haniger isn’t the only player to leave Seattle recently. Before his release, the team also parted ways with pitcher Drew Pomeranz. Does the name sound unfamiliar? It’s likely because he hasn’t pitched in the majors since 2021, largely due to the similar fate of injuries like Haniger. During his stint with the Mariners this spring, he recorded 10 strikeouts in 7 2/3 innings while his fastball averaged 92.0 mph.
What’s next for the Mariners—and for Haniger, a man with unfinished business and a lot left to prove?
Financial and roster implications for Seattle Mariners
After Haniger’s release, the Seattle Mariners must reevaluate their roster and budget for the 2025 season. Despite his departure, they must still pay his $15.5 million season salary. While severing ties may be costly, sticking out could cost you more. This substantial financial commitment underscores the organization’s strategic decision to invest in a stronger and more versatile outfield lineup.
In baseball, where one’s health is wealth, one invests in promising futures. The Mariners are putting their AL status ahead of money by absorbing Haniger’s pay, emphasizing on-field performance. Rather than watching him struggle, they have opted to pay him to leave.
With No. 17 gone, there are opportunities for other players to take center stage, which means the roster will be reshuffled. Randy Arozarena is expected to play left field for the Mariners, Julio Rodriguez will be on center field, and Victor Robles will be in the right field. Based on the team’s objective of having a more robust and adaptable lineup, this configuration combines offensive potential, defensive skill, and speed. The Mariners have solid outfield coverage thanks to utility players Dylan Moore, Dominic Canzone, Luke Raley, and Robles, who all contribute depth and versatility.
With his release, Haniger’s career has reached a turning point. After struggling with injuries and inconsistent performance, he must overcome the next obstacle: securing a position in another roster. Some teams may consider signing Haniger as a veteran outfielder, valuing his extensive experience and impressive resume, which includes his 2018 All-Star appearance. His recent injury history and the financial weight of his previous contract will significantly influence potential offers from new franchises.
What does Haniger’s release mean for other teams scouting veteran outfielders? Could a fresh start give him a chance to reclaim his All-Star potential?