The Seattle Mariners have made a significant roster move, parting ways with veteran outfielder Mitch Haniger. The decision came after Haniger, 34, struggled with left shoulder soreness throughout spring training, limiting his availability on the field. The Mariners officially announced his release on Sunday, closing the chapter on his second stint with the team.
For fans of the Mariners, Haniger’s departure is bittersweet. He has been a cornerstone of the team, known for his grit, dedication, and leadership. “Putting on a Mariners uniform and playing at T-Mobile Park is something I’ll cherish forever,” Haniger shared in an emotional statement. “To our fans, my teammates, and everyone a part of this organization, thank you for embracing my family and me. We have so many great memories to look back on.”
Haniger originally made his Major League debut with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2016 before being traded to Seattle later that year. From the moment he arrived for his first spring training with the Mariners in 2017, he quickly gained a reputation as one of the hardest-working and most dedicated players in the clubhouse. Mariners President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto acknowledged this in a statement, saying, “Mitch has been a significant part of Mariners history and will be missed. The day he arrived, he established himself as one of the most focused, prepared, and hardest-working players I’ve ever been around. We all appreciate the many ways he’s made us all better, on the field and off.”
His career with Seattle was filled with highs and challenges. One of his standout moments came in 2021 when he delivered a career-best season, batting .253 while launching 39 home runs and driving in 100 RBIs across 157 games. It was the kind of performance that cemented his status as one of the Mariners’ key offensive players. However, injuries and inconsistency plagued him in the seasons that followed, preventing him from reaching those same heights.
In December 2022, Haniger signed a lucrative three-year, $43.5 million contract with the San Francisco Giants, a deal that included a $15.5 million salary for the 2024 season. However, his time with the Giants didn’t pan out as expected. After batting a career-low .208 with just 12 home runs and 44 RBIs in 121 games last year, Seattle brought him back in a trade this past January, hoping he could rekindle some of his past success. Unfortunately, his shoulder issues sidelined him for much of spring training, and he hasn't appeared in a Cactus League game since March 8.
Despite his recent struggles, Haniger’s contributions to the Mariners cannot be overlooked. Over his two stints with the team, he batted .263 with 107 home runs and 306 RBIs, making a lasting impact on both the franchise and its fanbase. His work ethic, leadership, and ability to deliver clutch moments made him a fan favorite and a respected figure in the clubhouse.
Key Takeaways from Haniger’s Time with the Mariners:
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Breakout Season (2021): 39 homers, 100 RBIs, and an unforgettable year for Mariners fans.
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Two-Time Mariner: Originally acquired in 2016, left for San Francisco in 2022, and returned in 2024.
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Injury Struggles: Battled various injuries, including his latest shoulder issue, limiting his time on the field.
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Fan-Favorite: Loved for his work ethic, leadership, and ability to come through in big moments.
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What’s Next? At 34, Haniger’s future in Major League Baseball remains uncertain, but his dedication to the game suggests he may not be done just yet.
While it’s unclear what the future holds for Haniger, one thing is certain—his time with the Mariners will be remembered fondly. Whether it was his electrifying 2021 season, his return to Seattle this year, or his role as a veteran leader in the clubhouse, he has left an undeniable mark on the organization. Mariners fans will always appreciate what he brought to the team, and wherever his journey takes him next, he’ll undoubtedly carry that same passion and commitment to the game.
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