Mariners put slugging first baseman Ty France on waivers as team struggles

The Mariners did what would have been unthinkable just two years ago.

On Sunday, Seattle placed longtime first baseman Ty France on waivers, according to multiple reports.

The 30-year-old was an All-Star in 2022 but experienced a considerable dip in production this year, batting just .223 with 31 RBIs and -0.4 wins above replacement in 88 games.

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If France isn’t acquired by another team, he could return to Seattle and be assigned to the minor leagues, although he also has the right to block that downgrade given his service time.

If he declines the option, he can become a free agent.

France had played the last five seasons with the Mariners, leading the franchise in hits and RBIs in that duration while ranking top three in doubles, home runs, walks, games played and plate appearances.

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In addition to wielding a declining bat, France’s defense dipped immensely this year.

His -8 outs above average at first base are the second-worst in baseball, ahead of only the Blue Jays’ Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

With baseball’s trade deadline arriving in only eight days, France could prove to be a cheap, veteran bat for teams seeking an experienced first baseman or designated hitter.

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France’s woes have been a microcosm of the Mariners’ entire offensive season.

Seattle has the lowest team batting average (.218) and highest strikeout rate (28.0 percent) in baseball.

However, the M’s have still put together a solid year, sitting 53-48 and tied for first place in the AL West.

While once commanding first place in the division by a wide margin, Seattle dropped five of its past six games, including losing two of three to the Astros this weekend.

Without France, Seattle will likely turn to Luke Raley and June call-up Tyler Locklear to man first base.

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