Seattle’s Bullpen Boost: Acquiring Ortiz from the Dodgers
SEATTLE — The off-season is heating up in Seattle, and the Mariners are making a strategic move to bolster their bullpen. They’ve acquired left-handed pitcher Robinson Ortiz from the Dodgers, adding a potential game-changer to their roster.
The trade details are as follows: The Mariners receive LHP Robinson Ortiz, while the Dodgers get RHP Tyler Gough. This move brings the Mariners’ 40-man roster to 39 players, with the final spot expected to be filled when Naylor’s deal is finalized after a physical on Monday. While Ortiz’s acquisition might not be as high-profile as Naylor’s, he could be a game-changer for the bullpen, a position the team’s general manager, Justin Hollander, has prioritized upgrading this offseason.
Ortiz, 25, is a rising star in the Dodgers’ organization. He spent the 2025 season with the Triple-A Oklahoma City, as well as the High-A and Double-A affiliates. In 15 appearances (including one start) at Triple-A, he posted an impressive 1-0 record with a 2.76 ERA, striking out 14 batters while walking only 9. Across 48 Minor League appearances, he went 5-2 with a 2.73 ERA, showcasing his ability to dominate at multiple levels of the minors.
Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 180 pounds, Ortiz has been a consistent performer in the Dodgers’ system since 2017. During his six Minor League seasons, he boasts a career record of 17-12 and a 3.48 ERA. His ability to strike out batters (238 in total) and control the game (109 walks) makes him a valuable asset for any team.
The Peravia, D.R. native signed with the Dodgers as an international free agent in 2017, marking the beginning of his professional journey. This trade is a strategic move by the Mariners to strengthen their bullpen, especially with the recent departure of Caleb Ferguson, who didn’t meet expectations in the postseason.
On the other hand, Tyler Gough, a 22-year-old right-handed pitcher, was not part of the 2025 Minor League season due to Tommy John surgery. He previously played in 33 games (32 starts) with the High-A Modesto from 2023-24, accumulating an 8-7 record with a 4.66 ERA. Gough was selected by the Mariners in the ninth round of the 2022 MLB Draft, showcasing the team’s commitment to developing young talent.
As the Mariners continue to build their roster, the acquisition of Ortiz adds a much-needed left-handed option to the bullpen. With his impressive minor league numbers and potential for growth, Ortiz could be a key contributor to the team’s success in the upcoming season.