Mariners Opening Day 2025: Dan Wilson's Lineup and Ryan Bliss's Debut

Background: The Second Base Question

Heading into the 2025 season, the Mariners' biggest positional battle was at second base. With Jorge Polanco moving to third base following offseason knee surgery and the departure of Josh Rojas, the competition primarily involved rookie Ryan Bliss and utility Gold Glover Dylan Moore. Bliss, acquired from Arizona in 2023, showcased his potential in 33 games late last season (.222 AVG, 5 SBs) and built on that momentum this spring.

Bliss Secures the Spot

Despite Moore's defensive prowess, Bliss's bat (.308 AVG, .787 OPS in spring) ultimately won him the starting job. Manager Dan Wilson highlighted Bliss's offensive identity: using the middle of the field, getting on base, and utilizing his speed (he stole 54 bases in Triple-A Tacoma in 2024). Teammate J.P. Crawford praised Bliss as a potential "game-changer." Bliss focused on improving against fastballs in the offseason, an area he struggled with in his initial MLB stint.

Opening Day Performance

Concerns about Bliss's defense were quickly addressed in the season opener against the Athletics. He handled seven defensive chances cleanly, including a standout sliding play and spin throw to first. "How good is it that he had so many chances at second base?" noted Mariners insider Shannon Drayer. While hitless, Bliss reached base twice via walks and stole a base, showcasing his on-base skills.

Lineup Strategy and Notes

Manager Dan Wilson's opening day lineup featured Victor Robles leading off, followed by Julio Rodriguez, Cal Raleigh, Randy Arozarena, Luke Raley (DH), Jorge Polanco (3B), Rowdy Tellez (1B), Ryan Bliss (2B), and J.P. Crawford (SS), with Logan Gilbert pitching. Wilson plans a flexible DH rotation, likely using Donovan Solano against left-handed pitching. The opening day festivities also saw Mariners legend Ichiro Suzuki throw out the ceremonial first pitch (reportedly at 84 mph) to his former catcher and current manager, Dan Wilson.

Who won the Mariners' starting second base job for 2025?

Rookie Ryan Bliss won the job after a strong spring training performance, beating out veteran utility player Dylan Moore.

Why did Jorge Polanco move to third base?

Polanco moved to third base to fill the spot vacated by Josh Rojas and accommodate Ryan Bliss at second base.

What is Manager Dan Wilson's approach to the lineup?

Wilson prefers lineup consistency, especially for infield chemistry, but will utilize a rotation at the Designated Hitter (DH) position based on matchups.

The Mariners are placing considerable faith in rookie Ryan Bliss to handle second base duties.

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