Josh Rojas landing spots: 3 potential destinations for utility man non-tendered by Mariners

Josh Rojas was one of the major names on the list of four players whose contracts were not tendered by the Seattle Mariners. The infielder who was at one point Seattle's leadoff hitter became inconsistent, ending 2024 with a .225 average, 31 RBIs and eight home runs.

But Rojas is versatile in defense. He is an above-average player at third base while putting a decent amount of shifts in the middle of the diamond at 2B. He is expected to earn $4.6 million via arbitration, per MLB Trade Rumors. He has an extra year of arbitration because of his contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks before his trade to the MS in 2023.

Several teams are looking for an effective solution to their infield and hitting needs this offseason. Here's taking a look at the teams who could be interested in signing to their 26-man roster on Opening Day.

#1, Milwaukee Brewers

The Brewers lost their star shortstop Willy Adames to free agency. They likely won't outbid several big-market clubs ready to dish out hefty deals for Adames. Thus, they need to shuffle their infield around the diamond led by Rhys Hoskins.

They need more depth and could work with a relatively cheaper backup in Rojas. He could play in place of Joey Ortiz at third base with Ortiz moving to shortstop to fill in Adames' shoes.

#2, Houston Astros

Like the Brewers, the Astros have lost an important piece in their infield puzzle. Third baseman Alex Bregman is expected to sign elsewhere. The Astros are unlikely to match the $30 million annual average value for him.

There aren't enough credible hot corner infielders available in the market. So, the Astros could sign Rojas along with another utility player and use them alongside Jose Altuve and Jeremy Pena in the diamond. They could play out 2025 accordingly and look to sign Eugenio Suarez, who will be available next year for free agency.

#3, Kansas City Royals

The Royals suffered last year in the corner infield positions with the bat. Their primary third baseman Maikel Garcia had similar stats to Rojas. But more than a like-for-like replacement, Rojas could add a left-handed hitting flair to the Royals lineup, which it lacks. He can also pinch hit during crucial games, and his expected fees are in the range for a team like Kansas City.