Can Cole Young help keep the Mariners on postseason track?
The Seattle Mariners are betting on Cole Young to play a pivotal role as they chase a postseason spot, with the rookie second baseman entering the conversation after a two-month look at the big leagues. A recent segment features Yahoo Sports senior MLB analyst Jordan Shusterman examining Young’s potential on the Baseball Bar-B-Cast podcast, breaking down what he’s shown so far and what he’ll need to grow into a lasting contributor.
What the analysis focuses on
– Young’s athleticism and defensive upside at second base stand out, offering the Mariners a versatile tool in the infield as they navigate a tight race to October.
– On the offensive side, Shusterman discusses how Young’s early adjustments at the plate could translate into more consistent production as he gains big-league experience.
– The conversation also highlights the development path ahead for Young, including refining strike-zone recognition, improving contact rates, and expanding range and field awareness.
Why it matters for the Mariners
– With a postseason push underway, Young’s progression could influence how Seattle stacks its infield depth and Kuzman’s lineup flexibility. A steady, growing contribution from Young could reduce the pressure on veterans and help the team maintain momentum down the stretch.
What to watch going forward
– Plate discipline and consistency: Can Young translate his early adjustments into sustainable at-bats against high-leverage pitching?
– Defensive development: Will his range and glove play up enough to lock down second base with regularity?
– Role and timing: How the Mariners balance Young’s progression with other infield options as the calendar moves toward October.
Summary
Cole Young’s early big-league tenure has ignited thoughtful discussion among analysts about his ceiling and how he might help Seattle contend down the stretch. The Baseball Bar-B-Cast conversation provides fans with a closer look at the rookie’s strengths and the growth path that could determine whether he becomes a key piece in the Mariners’ postseason push.
Positive outlook
There is reason for optimism: a young player with high upside who is already showing flashes of the tools that could make him a cornerstone of Seattle’s roster in the years ahead. If he continues to develop at the pace suggested in the analysis, Young could become an increasingly reliable contributor as the Mariners aim for a deep playoff run.