Mariners trade chip could be 'desperate' move for Phillies, Rays

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Mariners trade chip could be 'desperate' move for Phillies, Rays image

May 15, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners designated hitter Rob Refsnyder (30) reacts after striking out during the ninth inning against the San Diego Padres at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

There are not a lot of valuable right-handed hitting outfielders who could be made available at this year's trade deadline.

The Seattle Mariners may have one, but the 35-year-old has not had a good season at the plate.

Still, interested clubs may hope that a turnaround comes with a change of scenery.

Rob Refsnyder, who crushed lefties during his time with the Boston Red Sox, is hitting .140 with a .458 OPS against southpaws in 2026.

Bleacher Report's Tim Kelly wrote Wednesday that although Refsnyder is having a bad year, teams may take a chance on his previous success against lefties.

"At 35, Refsnyder might just be over the hill. But this is someone who hit .302 with a .959 OPS against left-handed pitching last season for the Boston Red Sox," Kelly wrote.

"Given how desperate teams are for right-handed hitting outfielders right now, if the Mariners are willing to consider moving on from Refsnyder, there will be interest."

Two clubs who could use another right-handed bat are the Philadelphia Phillies and Tampa Bay Rays.

Would Refsnyder likely be either club's first choice? Probably not.

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But he would be a much cheaper option than some other names, like Byron Buxton, Taylor Ward, or Seiya Suzuki.

First, the Mariners must decide if they are willing to part ways with Refsnyder to improve other parts of their roster before the postseason.