From Atlanta to Seattle, Former Braves Coach Sparks Mariners’ Explosive Offense
The former Atlanta Braves hitting coach is drawing attention for transforming the Seattle Mariners into one of the most potent offensive teams in Major League Baseball this season. Kevin Seitzer, who once guided the Braves to a record-setting offensive performance, has quickly made his mark in the Pacific Northwest.
A New Chapter for Seitzer
Following the conclusion of the 2024 season, the Braves opted for a change, particularly in their hitting strategy. Seitzer, along with several other staff members, was let go after a successful tenure that included coaching a team that hit an astonishing 307 home runs in 2023—tying the record for the most in a single season, previously set by the 2019 Minnesota Twins. The Braves’ offense, however, faced challenges this year, ranking 11th in home runs with just 187, reflecting a significant decline from their previous season.
Almost immediately after his departure, Seitzer found a new home with the Mariners, a team that had struggled for years with a lackluster offensive output. The Mariners, who have long sought a solution to their hitting woes, welcomed Seitzer with open arms, hoping his expertise would revitalize their lineup.
Mariners’ Offense Takes Flight
As the season progressed, it became evident that Seitzer’s influence was taking hold. By late in the season, the Mariners ranked third in the league for home runs, with a remarkable total of 236, trailing only the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers. This turnaround has been nothing short of impressive, showcasing Seitzer’s ability to mold hitters and create a more aggressive, productive offense.
Central to this offensive resurgence is Cal Raleigh, the Mariners’ emerging star and a strong MVP candidate. Raleigh reached a significant milestone recently, hitting his 60th home run, a feat that not only underscores his power-hitting capabilities but also played a crucial role in the Mariners clinching the American League West title for the first time since their historic 116-win season in 2001.
Raleigh’s Rise
Raleigh has always possessed the raw power needed to be a home run threat, but under Seitzer’s guidance, he has refined his approach at the plate. The former hitting coach has emphasized the importance of discipline and timing, allowing Raleigh to tap into his potential more effectively. This season, Raleigh’s contributions have been pivotal, making him a standout player in an offense that has finally found its rhythm.
Seitzer’s Impact in Perspective
Seitzer’s transition from the Braves to the Mariners is a testament to his coaching acumen. He has not only revitalized Seattle’s offense but has also fostered a culture of confidence within the team. The Mariners, who had faced years of frustration, are now thriving on the field, and much of that can be attributed to Seitzer’s strategies and insights.
As the Mariners head into the postseason, they do so with a potent lineup and an MVP candidate leading the charge. The transformation from a struggling offense to a powerhouse in just one season highlights the significant impact that a skilled coach can have on a team’s performance. With Seitzer at the helm, the Mariners have turned the page on their offensive struggles, setting the stage for a promising future.
