Mariners Lock Up Key Utility Player

Dylan Moore may not be a star, but he's one of the most important players on the Seattle Mariners nonetheless. His speed, on-base skills and ability to play virtually every position make him an invaluable roster piece.

The Mariners recognized that on Wednesday night by rewarding Moore with a three-year contract extension.

Dylan Moore Mariners Contract

The deal buys out Moore's two remaining years of arbitration as well as his first year of free agency, paying him just under $9 million over the course of the deal.

This is a pretty good bargain for a player who was worth $17 million last year alone based on FanGraphs' WAR/$ estimator. Moore was invaluable to Seattle making the playoffs for the first time since 2001, posting a .368 OBP with 21 steals and playing every position except pitcher and catcher.

It wasn't a fluke, either. Moore stole 21 bases in 2021 as well and logged a .358 OBP in 2020, so the skills are repeatable.

Having a player you can plug in at any position is great for a manager, especially when he provides some offense as well. The only concern is that Moore may start to decline now that he's in his 30s, but if he can stay healthy and productive for a few more years this will turn out to be a terrific signing for the Mariners.