MARINERS, REDS SWAP SIX
The Seattle Mariners acquired outfielder Jesse Winker and infielder Eugenio Suarez from the Cincinnati Reds for pitcher Justin Dunn, outfielder Jake Fraley, pitcher Brandon Williamson and a player to be named later (Connor Phillips - 03/29/22).
What does it give the Seattle Mariners
In Winker, the Mariners get a quality left-handed hitter for the middle of their lineup. He is coming off a breakthrough season in 2021 but can he continue to build his resume away from Great American Ball Park? The jury is out. As for Suarez, he is expected to replace the retired Kyle Seager at the hot corner. Suarez hit 31 home runs last season but that came with just a .198 batting average. He needs to rebound.
What does it give the Cincinnati Reds
For Cincinnati, Dunn may end up as the key player in this deal. He is a solid starting pitcher option for the Reds in 2022 (as long as he can stay healthy). Fraley is a good bet to replace Winker in left field. He could benefit from Cincinnati's hitter-friendly confines but needs to prove he can hit left-handed pitching. Williamson is a quality pitching prospect, so he represents a good addition to Cincinnati's stables.
Fantasy impact
Suarez and Winker need to prove they can mash away from the Reds' cozy ball park, but both are recommendable fantasy draft options for 2022. However, they should be moved slightly down draft boards. Dunn could be a solid value pick in some leagues this year, although Great American Ball Park will not do him any favors. Williamson is a good keeper prospect who could be drafted in very deep formats, while Fraley has more value as a Red than as a Mariner. He may be worth a late-round flier.
Player focus
Cincinnati Reds
player to be named later