Gilbert is the kind of arm you lock up. The problem is the timing suddenly feels less straightforward.
MLB.com tossing Logan Gilbert into its 2026 extension-candidate bucket makes total sense on paper. He’s an All-Star-caliber starter, he’s eligible for free agency after the 2027 season, and Seattle’s entire identity still runs through pitching development.
But the Mariners also have every reason to slow-play this, because the “extend your homegrown ace” conversation isn’t happening in a vacuum anymore.