Mariners Manager Optimistic About 2026 Season

Dan Wilson says his team has a 'good feeling in camp' as they prepare for a World Series push.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Coming off one of their best seasons in franchise history, the Seattle Mariners are heading into 2026 with high expectations and a positive outlook, according to manager Dan Wilson. Wilson expressed optimism about his team's pitching staff, talented roster, and the overall energy and eagerness in the Mariners' spring training camp.

Why it matters

The Mariners are seen as a top contender in the American League after winning their division in 2025 and falling just short of the World Series. With a talented young core led by stars like Julio Rodriguez and Cal Raleigh, the Mariners have their sights set on making a deep playoff run and potentially winning their first championship.

The details

Wilson highlighted the strong performances of the team's "high-leverage guys" on the mound during spring training, as well as the overall positive energy and communication among the players. The Mariners' rotation, featuring a group of young veterans, is expected to be one of the best in baseball as the team looks to build on last year's success.

  • The Mariners are preparing for the 2026 MLB season.

The players

Dan Wilson

The manager of the Seattle Mariners, who is expressing optimism about his team's chances in the upcoming season.

Julio Rodriguez

A star player for the Mariners who is being mentioned as a potential MVP candidate.

Cal Raleigh

Another star player for the Mariners who is being mentioned as a potential MVP candidate.

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What they’re saying

“Another good day of camp. Good feeling in camp. We had some of our high-leverage guys on the mound, and I thought their bullpens looked really well... There's just so many guys here, and they're here early, and they're eager and ready to go. Just a good feeling. You just gotta love to see that kind of energy.”

— Dan Wilson, Manager (si.com)

“I think our pitching group has their plan in place, too. And that comes down to the communication from the player... Again, it all depends on communication; it all depends on hos these guys feel moving forward. So far, things have gone according to plan, and we'll just keep making adjustments as we go.”

— Dan Wilson, Manager (si.com)

What’s next

The Mariners will continue their spring training preparations as they look to build on their success from last season and make a run at the World Series in 2026.

The takeaway

The Mariners are entering the 2026 season with a positive and optimistic outlook, led by a talented roster and a confident manager who believes his team has what it takes to contend for a championship. After falling just short in 2025, the Mariners are poised to make history and potentially deliver the city of Seattle its first World Series title.