Mariners Fans Rank Third-Most Optimistic in MLB Survey

The Athletic's recent survey shows Seattle fans are bullish on their team's 2026 prospects.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:38pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Mariners baseball game, with sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, teal, and emerald green, capturing the dynamic energy and excitement of the team's upcoming season.The Mariners' talented roster and recent playoff success have their fans buzzing with optimism for the 2026 season.Seattle Today

According to a recent survey from The Athletic, Seattle Mariners fans are the third-most optimistic fanbase in Major League Baseball heading into the 2026 season. The Mariners are coming off an ALCS appearance and have made several key offseason moves, including the Brendan Donovan trade and Josh Naylor extension, that have their fans excited about the team's chances.

Why it matters

The Mariners have long struggled to build a consistent winner, so this level of optimism from the fanbase is a positive sign that the team may be on the cusp of sustained success. With a talented roster and high expectations, the Mariners will look to capitalize on their momentum and make a deep playoff run in 2026.

The details

The Athletic's survey found that 95.7% of Mariners fans are optimistic about the 2026 season, trailing only the Los Angeles Dodgers (99.8%) and Toronto Blue Jays (96.2%). The Mariners' optimism is fueled by a strong starting rotation, a good bullpen, and an improved lineup featuring offseason additions Brendan Donovan and Josh Naylor, as well as returning stars Julio Rodriguez, Cal Raleigh, and Randy Arozarena.

  • The Mariners made it to the ALCS in the 2025 MLB playoffs.
  • The Mariners made several key offseason moves ahead of the 2026 season, including the Brendan Donovan trade and Josh Naylor extension.

The players

Brendan Donovan

An offseason acquisition for the Mariners who is expected to bolster their lineup.

Josh Naylor

A Mariners player who recently signed a contract extension with the team.

Julio Rodriguez

A star player for the Mariners who is part of the team's talented core.

Cal Raleigh

A key contributor to the Mariners' lineup and pitching staff.

Randy Arozarena

An important part of the Mariners' offensive attack.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“3. Seattle Mariners: 95.7 percent optimism”

— Stephen J. Nesbitt, The Athletic

What’s next

The Mariners will look to build on their ALCS appearance in 2025 and make a deep playoff run in 2026 as they aim to end their long World Series drought.

The takeaway

The high level of optimism among Mariners fans is a testament to the team's recent progress and the excitement surrounding their talented roster. If the Mariners can capitalize on this momentum, they could be poised for a breakthrough season and a potential World Series appearance.