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Ex-Mariner Reaches World Series After Team's Near Miss
21 Oct
Summary
- Infielder Ben Williamson reached the World Series with the Rays.
- Williamson played for the Seattle Mariners in 2025.
- He was traded to Tampa Bay in the offseason.
The Seattle Mariners' near-historic 2025 season, where they were one game from the World Series, has a unique follow-up in 2026. Infielder Ben Williamson, who debuted with the Mariners last season, is now heading to the World Series with the Tampa Bay Rays after being traded in the offseason.
Williamson, a second-round pick in 2023, played 85 games for the Mariners in 2025, primarily as a defensive specialist. He posted a .253 batting average and a .604 OPS. Seattle then traded him to Tampa Bay as part of a three-team deal that also involved the St. Louis Cardinals.
This season, Williamson appeared in 88 games for the Rays, batting .238 with a .620 OPS. He proved versatile, playing second base, shortstop, and third base, and even pitched effectively in blowout games. His playoff performance includes a hit and two walks.
The Mariners, meanwhile, had a disappointing 2026 season, failing to contend in their division. They will watch from home as Williamson potentially plays a role for the Rays in the World Series, possibly against left-handed pitching.
