The Colorado Rockies have avoided committing to Seth Smith as a full-time outfielder given his struggles against left-handed pitching, and that's led to some rumors that they could be willing to deal him. We now have one potential suitor, as Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports is reporting that the Seattle Mariners have shown interest in Smith.
Morosi noted that it's unclear whether there are ongoing talks occurring, but Smith could be a fit for the Mariners as they seek more offense. Smith, 29, has a .290/.364/.518 line against right-handed pitching in his career, but he can't hit lefties and that's prevented him from really establishing himself as a regular. But in the right role, one where he essentially only faces right-handed pitching, he can be an extremely effective piece.
MLBTR projects Smith to make $2.6 million through arbitration in 2012, a reasonable price for a capable corner outfield defender that can hit right-handed pitching as well as he does. In 533 plate appearances for Colorado last season, Smith hit .284/.347/.483 with 32 doubles, 9 triples and 15 homers. The most obvious replacement for Smith would probably be Charlie Blackmon.
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