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Mariners rumors: Seattle working to acquire Marcell Ozuna

The Mariners are reportedly discussing a deal with the Marlins that would send Marcell Ozuna to Seattle.

Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Update: According to Clark Spencer, the Marlins could be looking at Roenis Elias, as well as the recently acquired Nate Karns.

Original story: According to Jerry Crasnick, the Mariners are working on a deal that would net them Marcell Ozuna.

Ozuna burst onto the scene in 2014 with a breakout campaign, but in 2015, his statistics suffered, and so did his reputation with owner Jeffrey Loria. He played incredibly well during his prolonged stint at AAA, which continued at the major league level after he was recalled in August.

Despite hitting .278/.320/.469 with a wOBA of .340 and a wRC+ of 115 after rejoining the Marlins, Loria wasn't happy that Ozuna became an everyday player again in the final months of the season. In fact, Ozuna's regular play may have even contributed to Dan Jennings' eventual dismissal from the club.

As of now, it's unclear what players have been discussed, but as Crasnick pointed out, the Marlins are seeking a young starter. Taijuan Walker would undoubtedly fit that description, but Seattle may be unwilling to part with him so early in his career. He made improvements over the final two months of the year, and figures to be a part of their future.

Ozuna is controllable through the end of the 2019 season, and would likely slot into left or right field, as Leonys Martín was recently acquired to play center field.

This story will be updated when more information has been made available.